Inter Miami is making waves as they push through the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, recently securing their spot in the knockout stages after overcoming Sporting Kansas City.
The last match was particularly intense. Following their gripping 2-2 draw with New York City FC on February 25, 2025, the team now fully focuses on the next challenge. Just two days later, they will clash with Sporting Kansas City—a match they enter with confidence after winning the first leg 1-0.
On February 23, the game started at Children’s Mercy Park, where Lionel Messi’s early contribution made all the difference. Messi scored the only goal of the first leg, edging his team past Sporting Kansas City. Now, at home, Inter Miami only needs to secure either a win or draw for progression to the next round of the tournament.
Given their recent results, anticipation is high. The stakes continue to rise, and the pressure mounts on the players. Coach Javier Mascherano aims to leverage the strength of his star players, including Messi and Luis Suárez, to deliver under pressure. The team will hope to find their rhythm as they juggle the demands of both the Champions Cup and the burgeoning Major League Soccer (MLS) season.
During the electrifying first game against New York City FC, Miami opened the scoring within minutes, thanks to Tomás Avilés' swift strike following Messi's assist. Yet, the match took an unexpected turn when Avilés was shown red, reducing the team to ten men. New York City capitalized on their numerical advantage, coming back to lead the game 2-1. Just as it seemed the match was slipping away, Messi orchestrated another late equalizer, setting up Telasco Segovia for the tying goal.
Now, back at the Chase Stadium with home fans ready to rally behind them, Inter Miami is prepared for another battle. They hold the upper hand with the 1-0 advantage from the first leg against Sporting Kansas City. They are set and ready to turn their attention exclusively to the second leg, drawing hope from their home-ground advantage.
Each game underlines the necessity for tactical adjustments. Mascherano knows his side is battling fatigue and challenges from both within the squad and the opposition. With Avilés’ suspension, he is expected to make key changes to the starting lineup. Speculations suggest adopting fresh legs may be imperative, alongside the proven strategies from their star-studded roster.
The stakes won't get any easier when they meet Cavalier FC from Jamaica next. Cavalier, founded over 60 years ago, will bring its unique story to Fort Lauderdale, presenting yet another hurdle for Messi and his teammates. Despite being relatively lesser-known on the international stage, Cavalier FC has made its mark by securing the Caribbean Cup title, which earned them entry to this prestigious tournament.
Although Cavalier's players tend to be younger—averaging around 20 years of age—coming from their previous success, their refreshing approach could pose serious competition. And as recent history shows, teams can surprise under pressure, raising the stakes even higher for Miami.
Inter Miami’s organization and focus will be tested, particularly as they aim to consolidate their position among North America’s top teams. The Caribbean club’s young roster could serve as both advantage and disadvantage—an opportunity for the undaunted veterans of Inter Miami to shine.
The upcoming matches promise action, drama, and the tightrope walk of managing both the Champions Cup and the MLS. On March 6, Inter Miami and Cavalier FC will face off for the first of two meetings, with the significant spotlight on Messi and his allies as they progress toward potential glory.
With all eyes on the Chase Stadium, Messi’s presence alone attracts attention and instills hope among fans. Nevertheless, this tournament isn't just about individual talents; it's about teamwork, tactics, and resilience. Whether Inter Miami can unify their squad and capitalize on these opportunities remains to be seen, yet the path to success looks both challenging and exhilarating.