The Concacaf Champions Cup is reaching its crucial stages as Los Angeles FC prepares to host Inter Miami in a highly anticipated quarterfinal match on Wednesday night. Both LAFC and Inter Miami are strong contenders for the title, and with only eight teams remaining, the stakes are higher than ever.
Inter Miami, under their new coach Javier Mascherano, are enjoying a strong unbeaten run across all competitions. In contrast, LAFC has been navigating a period of adjustment following significant changes to their team roster during the offseason. After a recent defeat to San Diego FC, LAFC needs a strong comeback at home, especially considering that away goals serve as a tiebreaker in this tournament.
Lionel Messi has been a key player for Miami, consistently scoring or providing assists in every game he has played this season. Even recently, he came off the bench against the Philadelphia Union and immediately scored. This impressive form suggests that Miami is likely to find the net in Los Angeles, putting pressure on LAFC`s defensive strategy led by Steve Cherundolo.
This game will mark the first encounter between Messi and LAFC`s goalkeeper Hugo Lloris since the dramatic 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina triumphed over France in a penalty shootout. In that memorable match, Messi scored twice during the game and also converted his penalty.
Match Details and How to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, April 2
- Location: BMO Stadium — Los Angeles, California
- TV: FS1 | Live stream: Fubo TV (Try for free)
- Odds: LAFC +115; Draw +215; Inter Miami +210
Messi to Start
After starting on the bench against the Philadelphia Union, Messi is expected to be in the starting lineup for this crucial first leg match in Los Angeles. His presence from the beginning will be a significant boost for Miami as they aim for a positive result.
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
The last time these two teams faced off was in an MLS game in March 2023, over two years ago. Only a few players from the starting lineups of that match are still with their respective teams. Messi did contribute an assist in that game. While the lineups have changed significantly since then, key players like Denis Bouanga and Messi are still expected to be influential in determining the outcome of this quarterfinal clash. Miami had the advantage of resting players in their recent game against Philadelphia, which could be beneficial as they head into this match.
Betting Prediction
Inter Miami to score 2 or more goals (+150): LAFC`s defense has shown inconsistency this season, particularly after conceding three goals to San Diego FC. This suggests an opportunity for Miami`s strong attack to capitalize. Even if Messi doesn`t start, Miami`s attacking depth, including players like Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez, makes them a threat to score multiple goals. The odds for Miami to score two or more goals present a compelling betting opportunity.
Player Spotlight
Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Allen has transitioned from left back to center back and has become a vital part of Miami`s improved defensive performance. His upcoming challenge against Bouanga will be a significant test, where his positional awareness will be crucial for Miami`s chances of securing a positive result in the first leg.
Key Match Storyline
Can Miami score an away goal? In a knockout competition, securing an away goal is often as important as winning the first leg. For LAFC, keeping a clean sheet at home is paramount. However, given their recent defensive form against Miami`s potent attack, this will be a difficult task. If Miami manages to score and gain an away goal advantage heading into the return leg in Fort Lauderdale, it could significantly tilt the tie in their favor.
Match Prediction
The timing of these matches early in the season presents a challenge for LAFC, who are still integrating many new players into their squad. While Miami also has new faces, they appear to have gelled together more quickly and are performing at a high level. Until proven otherwise, stopping Miami`s momentum and Messi`s influence on goals seems unlikely. Expect Miami to secure a valuable away victory. Predicted score: LAFC 0, Inter Miami 2
