The Concacaf Champions Cup is heating up as it reaches the quarterfinals, and Los Angeles FC is set to host Inter Miami on Wednesday night. Both teams are strong contenders for the title, and with only eight teams remaining, the stakes are high.
Miami enters the match with confidence, having remained undefeated under their new coach Javier Mascherano. LAFC, on the other hand, is still finding its footing after significant roster changes in the off-season and coming off a recent defeat.
LAFC will be under pressure to perform at home in this first leg, especially considering that away goals are the tiebreaker in this competition. Lionel Messi has been consistently contributing to Miami`s scores this season, making it likely that they will find the net in Los Angeles. This puts pressure on LAFC`s coach Steve Cherundolo`s strategy.
This game marks a notable reunion between Messi and LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, their first encounter since the dramatic 2022 World Cup final where Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout. In that final, Messi scored twice during the game and again in the shootout.
Key Match Details
- 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
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 lead Miami from the beginning as they seek a positive result 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 is the first time these teams have played each other in over two years, their last match being in MLS in March 2023. While several players from that game are no longer with their respective teams, Messi did provide an assist in that match. Denis Bouanga and Messi are expected to be key players in determining the outcome of this game. Miami had the advantage of resting players in their recent match, which could be beneficial for this upcoming clash.
Betting Prediction
Inter Miami to score 2 or more goals (+150): LAFC`s defense has been inconsistent this season. After conceding three goals to San Diego FC, betting on Miami to score at least twice seems reasonable. Even if Messi doesn`t start, Miami`s attack is strong, with players like Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez capable of scoring. Miami`s attacking depth makes this a worthwhile bet.
Player Spotlight
Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Allen, who has transitioned from left back to center back, has been crucial in strengthening Miami`s defense. His matchup against Bouanga will be a significant test, but Allen`s tactical awareness could be key to Miami`s success in this leg.
Match Storyline
Can Miami score an away goal? In this knockout format, securing an away goal is crucial. LAFC needs to prevent Miami from scoring at home. However, given LAFC`s defensive performance and Miami`s strong attack, this will be challenging. If Miami gains an away goal advantage, it could be decisive for the tie.
Match Prediction
The timing of these matches early in the season is disadvantageous for LAFC, as they are still integrating new players. While Miami also has new players, they appear to be in better form. Until a team can effectively stop Miami and Messi`s goal contributions, they will be a difficult opponent. Miami is predicted to secure a significant away victory in this match. Predicted score: LAFC 0, Inter Miami 2
