Inter Miami CF is gearing up for an exciting showdown as they prepare to face Jamaica’s Cavalier SC in the Round of 16 of the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup. The first leg is scheduled for March 6 at Chase Stadium in Florida, followed by the return leg on March 13 at Sabina Park, Jamaica. This matchup not only highlights the prowess of Inter Miami, led by global stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, but it also marks what could be Messi’s first ever appearance on Jamaican soil – a thrilling prospect for local fans.
Inter Miami advanced to the Round of 16 by securing a convincing 4-1 aggregate victory over Sporting Kansas City. The team showcased their skills at home on Tuesday, March 5, when they triumphed 3-1 at Chase Stadium after winning the first leg 1-0 the previous week. Messi opened the scoring just 19 minutes after the kickoff, executing a brilliant left-footed volley from the edge of the penalty box, capitalizing on a precise cross from Suárez. This assist marked yet another milestone for the duo, combining for their 100th goal together, substantially eleving the anticipation for their upcoming exploits.
Tadeo Allende and Suárez sealed the first-half dominance with two rapid-fire goals, the first coming during stoppage time at 45’+1 and the latter shortly after at 45’+3, pushing Inter Miami’s lead to 3-0 by the break. Although Sporting Kansas City made efforts to bounce back with Memo Rodríguez managing to score in the 63rd minute, it proved insufficient as Miami held their ground for the win. The aggregate score from both legs saw Inter Miami comfortably secure their position for the imminent confrontation with Cavalier SC.
Cavalier SC advanced to this prestigious stage by winning the CONCACAF Caribbean Cup, which afforded them a bye directly to the Round of 16. Their remarkable victory over Cibao FC from the Dominican Republic last December gave Jamaican football fans multiplied reasons to be excited, especially with the prospect of witnessing football legends like Messi grace its fields. This clash not only underlines Inter Miami's aspirations to seize the Concacaf title but also marks the Jamaican club's second consecutive season participating at this level. It could be historic, as Messi’s presence may generate immense interest and attendance.
For the upcoming matches, arena choices are under consideration; Cavalier SC typically hosts at Stadium East Field but may shift to Independence Park to cater to the anticipated surge of fans, as the match is likely to prompt considerable demand due to Messi’s star power.
Looking forward, should Inter Miami advance past Cavalier, they may face one of their fiercest rivals, Columbus Crew, who must overcome the winner between Los Angeles FC and Colorado Rapids before meeting Inter Miami. The whole of Major League Soccer is holding its breath as they contemplate what could be another remarkable chapter for Messi and his teammates.
This upcoming encounter not only symbolizes the intersection of local passion for football and the allure of international stars but also embodies the cultural exchange at play when elite teams from various regions collide on the pitch. The excitement building around the event serves as a reminder of the unifying power of sports.
The anticipation around this historic occasion allows both Jamaican fans and the Inter Miami faithful to immerse themselves fully, celebrating not just the game itself but the larger narratives of ambition, pride, and the spirit of competition. Eyes will be on the players, the strategy, and everything tied to the exhilarating atmosphere of these high-stakes matches. Will this become the moment where the legendary Lionel Messi will leave his mark on Jamaican soil? Football enthusiasts around the island are eagerly awaiting the answer, with hearts poised for memorable moments both on and off the field.