Inter Miami wins the CONCACAF Champions Cup without Lionel Messi

In the first leg of a CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 series, Inter Miami defeated Cavalier SC 2-0 on Thursday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, thanks to goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez in the second half.

Lionel Messi, who missed Miami’s game against Houston on Sunday, was not present for the home team.

Regarding Messi, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano stated, “The doctors informed me that he has no scars or injuries. After playing three games in six days, he is exhausted.

Numerous circumstances have arisen as a result of the weather variations. And despite the dangers, we chose to give him some rest since we want to look after him and don’t want to wear him out. It’s obviously difficult to not have the world’s best player. However, we also need to advance and learn how to play without him.

On March 13, Kingston, Jamaica, will host the second and last leg of the total-goal series. On Sunday, Inter Miami will host Charlotte FC in an MLS match.

Up until the 61st minute of Thursday’s match, there was no score. Allende’s looping header was saved despite a right-side corner kick from Inter Miami. After a flurry in front, the ball stayed in play close to the left goalpost and found Allende at the penalty spot. Allende then scored a left-footed goal through traffic to eliminate any doubt.

In the 83rd minute, Suarez scored with his left foot from 16 yards out to complete the victory.

In the quarterfinals, the series winner will face either the Columbus Crew or Los Angeles FC.