As the Concacaf Champions Cup reaches the quarterfinal stage, the stakes are high as Los Angeles FC prepares to host Inter Miami on Wednesday night. Both teams are serious contenders for the title, and with only eight teams remaining, they are nearing the final match. Miami enters this game with confidence, maintaining an unbeaten record across all competitions under their new coach Javier Mascherano. In contrast, LAFC has faced some challenges in integrating new players after significant roster changes in the off-season.
Following a recent defeat to San Diego FC, LAFC needs a strong comeback at home in this first leg, especially given that away goals serve as a tiebreaker in this tournament. With Lionel Messi consistently contributing goals or assists in every game he`s played this season, including a notable goal after coming off the bench against the Philadelphia Union, Miami is highly likely to score in Los Angeles. This puts additional pressure on LAFC`s strategy, managed by Steve Cherundolo.
This match marks Messi`s first encounter with LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris since the dramatic 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina triumphed over France in a penalty shootout. In that memorable game, Messi scored twice during regular and extra time, and also converted his penalty.
Match Details and How to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, April 2
- Time: 11:30 p.m. ET
- Location: BMO Stadium — Los Angeles, California
- Watch: FS1, Live stream: Fubo TV (Try for free)
- Odds: LAFC +115; Draw +215; Inter Miami +210
Messi to Start
Lionel Messi is expected to start this match after beginning on the bench against the Philadelphia Union. Despite scoring as a substitute in that game, he will now aim to lead Miami to a crucial first-leg victory in Los Angeles.
Inter Miami Starting XI: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, Yannick Bright, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi
Previous Encounter
This will be the first game between these teams in over two years, their last match being in MLS in March 2023. Only a few players from the starting lineups of that game remain with their respective teams. Messi provided an assist in that previous match. While even fewer of those players are expected to start this upcoming game, key players like Denis Bouanga and Messi are likely to be decisive. Miami had the advantage of resting players in their match against Philadelphia Union, which could be beneficial for this upcoming game.
Expert Betting Tip
Bet: Inter Miami to score 2 or more goals (+150): LAFC`s defense has shown inconsistency this season, and after conceding three goals to San Diego FC, backing Miami to score at least twice seems reasonable. Even if Messi doesn`t start, Miami`s attacking lineup, including Tadeo Allende, who has been in good scoring form, and Luis Suarez, provides significant threat. Miami`s strong attack depth makes this bet valuable when offered at plus odds.
Player Spotlight
Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Transitioning to center back from left back, Allen has been instrumental in strengthening Miami`s defense. Facing Bouanga will be a significant test, but Allen`s positional intelligence could be key to Miami`s success in this first leg.
Key Match Storyline
Can Miami secure an away goal? In this knockout format, securing an away goal is almost as important as winning the first leg. For LAFC, keeping a clean sheet at home is crucial. However, given their defensive performances and Miami`s attacking prowess, this will be a difficult task. If Miami manages to gain an away goal advantage heading into the return leg in Fort Lauderdale, it could significantly tilt the balance of the tie.
Match Prediction
Playing these matches early in the season presents a challenge for LAFC as they integrate many new players. While Miami also has new faces, they appear to have found their rhythm earlier in the season. Until proven otherwise, stopping Miami`s momentum and Messi`s goal contributions seems difficult. Expect Miami to secure an important away victory. Predicted Score: LAFC 0, Inter Miami 2
Dominic Ashworth