Javier Mascherano struggled to hold back emotion as he praised Lionel Messi’s brilliance following Inter Miami’s stunning 3-1 comeback victory over LAFC in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarter-final second leg on April 9, 2025. The result flipped a 1-0 first-leg deficit and secured Miami’s passage to the semifinals.
Messi led the charge, first converting a high-pressure penalty after LAFC scored early to double their aggregate lead. The Argentine legend then scored the match-winner in the 84th minute, capping a dazzling performance that left fans and pundits raving once again about his unmatched genius.
Mascherano, who took over as head coach of Inter Miami earlier this season, admitted that speaking about Messi never feels easy despite their two-decade relationship as teammates with Argentina and Barcelona. “He’s the soul of this team,” he said post-match. “Sometimes I feel uncomfortable talking about him because I’ve known him for 20 years.”
According to Mascherano, coaching Messi at this stage of his career is more than a tactical role—it’s a responsibility. “He’s a guy who has everything in football. He’s the greatest in history. I just want to support him and help him enjoy every moment he has left on the pitch,” he added.
Inter Miami’s turnaround on Wednesday night at the DRV PNK Stadium drew a record crowd of 21,350 fans, all of whom witnessed a Messi masterclass that not only saved Miami’s tournament hopes but also solidified their growing dominance in North American football.
Messi’s performance also marked his 10th goal involvement in the competition so far—five goals and five assists—making him the top contributor of the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup at this stage. His impact on Miami since joining in 2023 has transformed the club into a serious continental contender.
As the semifinals loom, all eyes remain on the Argentine captain, whose presence continues to redefine Major League Soccer’s global appeal. Inter Miami will face Tigres UANL next, with the first leg scheduled for April 17, 2025.
