Lionel Messi scored two goals, overcoming earlier controversy, to propel Inter Miami into the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. They defeated LAFC 3-1, winning 3-2 on aggregate after a stunning turnaround from a 2-0 aggregate deficit.
Shortly after having a free kick goal disallowed, the Argentinian star scored a fantastic goal against Hugo Lloris, the same goalkeeper he beat twice in the 2022 World Cup final.
Noah Allen added another goal in the second half before a late penalty, confidently converted by Messi, secured Inter Miami`s victory in an unforgettable comeback.
The Disputed Free Kick
In the first half, Messi took a free kick. As Lloris was organizing his defensive wall, the referee moved away from the set-piece area. Messi then curled the ball into the goal`s far corner. Lloris was unprepared, but Messi took the shot, and initially, the referee signaled a goal. However, about a minute later, the referee reversed his decision, making Messi retake the free kick, which subsequently hit the wall.
This was a debatable situation. It`s understandable why Messi might have thought he was cleared to play after seeing the referee step away, and the initial goal award suggests the referee momentarily agreed. Lloris, on the other hand, was still setting up his wall and anticipating a whistle to restart play.
Messi`s Stunning Goal
Trailing 1-0 in the match and 2-0 on aggregate, Messi brought his team back into contention shortly after the controversial moment with an incredible goal into the top right corner in the 35th minute.
Messi Seals the Victory
Ultimately, Inter Miami scored the two second-half goals they needed to secure the win. The decisive goal came from a penalty awarded for a handball in the box, which Messi calmly slotted into the right side of the net.
Messi has now converted four penalties against Lloris, including two in the World Cup final (one in regular time and one in the shootout).
Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made crucial late saves for Inter Miami, ensuring their victory. Inter Miami now advances to the semifinals to face the winner of the Vancouver Whitecaps versus Pumas matchup, putting them within reach of the most significant game in North American club soccer.
