LAFC Stuns Inter Miami as Messi Goes Scoreless

LAFC secured a 1-0 victory over Inter Miami in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-finals, thanks to a 57th-minute goal from 21-year-old Nathan Ordaz. Lionel Messi, battling a minor injury, had limited impact, with just two shots on target. The second leg will determine who advances to the semifinals.

When it comes to high-stakes football, LAFC delivered a stunning performance by securing a 1-0 victory over Inter Miami in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. A sold-out crowd of 22,207 at BMO Stadium witnessed 21-year-old Nathan Ordaz score the decisive goal in the 57th minute. Ordaz, who was part of LAFC’s developmental team last year, capitalized on a pass from Mark Delgado, evading Miami's Sergio Busquets before firing a shot past Maximiliano Falcón.

Lionel Messi, playing despite a minor adductor injury, struggled to make an impact, registering only two shots on target. The last significant moment came in stoppage time when Messi sent a free kick over the bar. Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, who faced Messi in the 2022 World Cup final, made three saves to secure LAFC’s win.

This defeat marked Inter Miami’s first loss in 10 games under new coach Javier Mascherano. Meanwhile, LAFC, despite inconsistent form in all competitions, proved resilient. The two teams will face off again next Wednesday in South Florida, with aggregate goals determining the semifinalist. LAFC remains the only MLS club to reach the Champions Cup final twice this century, aiming for another historic run.