Lionel Messi netted a brace as Inter Miami staged a remarkable comeback, overturning a 2-0 deficit on aggregate to secure a 3-1 victory (3-2 on aggregate) over Los Angeles FC on Wednesday, advancing to the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Having lost 1-0 in the first leg, Miami found themselves under pressure early on when Aaron Long gave LAFC the lead in the ninth minute.
However, Messi reignited Miami’s hopes with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area in the 35th minute, yet Javier Mascherano’s side still needed two more goals to progress.
They edged ahead 2-1 on the night when Noah Allen delivered a chip into the box. Neither Miami midfielder Federico Redondo nor LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris could get a touch, allowing the ball to slip into the net.
Miami continued to chase the third goal, believing they had it when Luis Suarez headed in a cross from Messi, only for the assistant referee to flag the Uruguayan as offside.
The pivotal moment arrived when Miami appealed for a handball against Marlon amid a crowded scene in the penalty area. After a VAR review, it was confirmed that the Brazilian had handled the ball.
Messi coolly converted the penalty in the 84th minute, sending it into the corner and sealing Miami’s impressive comeback to secure their place in the semi-finals.
In a tense finish, LAFC nearly found a late winner, with Denis Bouanga testing Oscar Ustari twice and Ryan Hollingshead forcing another save from the Miami keeper.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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