Inter Miami secures CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals victory over Cavalier

On March 14, 2025, in Kingston, Jamaica, Inter Miami faced off against Cavalier SC in the Round of 16 of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The match was significant for the MLS club as it marked another step toward their ambition of reaching the semifinals for the first time. The game saw Luis Suarez scoring the first goal with a penalty kick in the 37th minute, following a foul in the box. Shortly thereafter, Lionel Messi, who had previously missed three matches due to fatigue, came off the bench in the second half and sealed the victory with a goal in stoppage time, which further solidified his reputation as a pivotal player for the team. Inter Miami had already won the first leg of their matchup 2-0, therefore advancing with an aggregate score of 4-0. The atmosphere during the match was filled with excitement, not just for the players but for the fans who had the chance to see Messi play live for the first time in the Caribbean. The local supporters received the team warmly, and Messi's performance only heightened the enthusiasm surrounding the event. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi for his contribution and emphasized the importance of timing in his participation. The decision to delay Messi's return to action appeared to pay off, as he was effective on the field, adding to his illustrious career by scoring in front of the Jamaican fans. In terms of statistics, Inter Miami showcased a dominant performance, outshooting the opposition 19-5 and maintaining 66% of possession throughout the match. These numbers reflect their control and strategic play on the field, allowing them to dictate the pace and minimize threats from Cavalier. As the team prepares to face Los Angeles FC in the quarterfinals, they will focus on maintaining the momentum built during this match, aiming for continued success in the Cup. With this win, Inter Miami not only moves forward in the tournament but also solidifies their status as a team capable of competing at higher levels of continental play. The prospects of facing LAFC present another challenging but exciting opportunity for the players. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Messi and his team can translate this victory into deeper tournament success and a potential first-time semifinal appearance.