The Concacaf Champions Cup is heating up as Los Angeles FC prepares to host Inter Miami in the quarterfinal stage. Both LAFC and Inter Miami are eager to win this prestigious tournament, and with only eight teams remaining, they are getting closer to the final showdown. Inter Miami enters the match with confidence, remaining undefeated under their new head coach Javier Mascherano across all competitions. However, LAFC has faced some challenges adapting after significant roster changes during the offseason.
After a recent defeat to San Diego FC, LAFC needs a strong comeback at home in this first leg, especially considering away goals serve as a tiebreaker in this competition. With Lionel Messi consistently contributing goals or assists in every game he`s played this season, including a recent goal against the Philadelphia Union after coming off the bench, Miami is highly likely to score in Los Angeles. This puts extra pressure on LAFC`s coach Steve Cherundolo and his team strategy.
This game marks the first encounter between Messi and LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris since the dramatic 2022 World Cup final where Argentina triumphed over France in a penalty shootout. In that memorable match, Messi scored twice during regular and extra time and also converted his penalty kick.
Match Details and Key Information
- Date: Wednesday, April 2
- Location: BMO Stadium — Los Angeles, California
- TV: FS1 | Live stream: Fubo TV (Try for free)
- Odds: LAFC +115; Draw +215; Inter Miami +210
Messi to Start
Lionel Messi is expected to start this match after beginning on the bench against the Philadelphia Union. Despite scoring as a substitute in that game, he will now aim to lead Miami to a crucial first-leg victory in Los Angeles.
Inter Miami starting XI: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, Yannick Bright, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi
Previous Encounter
This will be their first meeting in over two years, with their last match in MLS occurring in March 2023. Only nine players who started in that previous game are still with their respective teams. Messi provided an assist in that match. While even fewer of those nine players are expected to start this upcoming game, key players like Denis Bouanga and Messi will likely be decisive in determining the match`s outcome. Miami had the advantage of resting players in their recent game against Philadelphia, which could be beneficial for this upcoming clash.
Betting Prediction
Inter Miami to score 2+ goals (+150): LAFC`s defense has shown inconsistency this season, and after conceding three goals to San Diego FC, backing Miami to score at least twice seems reasonable. Even if Messi doesn`t start, Tadeo Allende has been a consistent scorer for Miami, and they possess a strong attacking lineup with players who can step up when needed. Luis Suarez, despite being a top contender for the MLS Golden Boot last season, hasn`t been the primary focus of their attack this season, highlighting the depth of Miami`s offensive capabilities. Therefore, odds favoring them to score two goals are worth considering.
Player Spotlight
Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Transitioning from left back to center back, Allen has played a significant role in strengthening Miami`s defense. Facing Bouanga will be a significant test, but Allen`s positional awareness could be crucial in securing a positive result for Miami in this first leg.
Match Storyline
Can Miami secure an away goal? In a knockout competition, securing an away goal is often as important as winning the first leg. For LAFC, keeping a clean sheet at home is critical. However, given their defensive performances and Miami`s attacking prowess, this will be a challenging task. If Miami manages to gain an away goal advantage heading into the return leg in Fort Lauderdale, it could significantly impact the outcome of the tie.
Match Prediction
Playing these matches early in the season can be disadvantageous for teams like LAFC that are still integrating new players. While Miami also has new faces, they appear to be in better form and more cohesive as a team. Until an opponent finds a way to effectively stop Miami`s attacking force and contain Messi`s influence, they will be a formidable team to beat. Expect Miami to secure a significant away victory in this match. Prediction: LAFC 0, Inter Miami 2
