The highly anticipated Inter Miami vs LAFC Concacaf Champions Cup 2025 quarterfinal kicked off with drama, missed opportunities, and a surprise hero. While Lionel Messi made headlines with his full return to the starting lineup, it was LAFC’s young striker Nathan Ordaz who scored the only goal of the night, giving his team a narrow but valuable 1-0 win in the first leg.
Table Of Content
- Nathan Ordaz Scores the Decisive Goal for LAFC :Inter Miami vs LAFC Concacaf Champions Cup 2025
- Messi Returns but Misses Opportunities
- Star-Studded Attendance at BMO Stadium
- Inter Miami Faces Setback Ahead of Second Leg
- Upcoming Fixtures Before Second Leg
- Key Moments Recap
- Match Kickoff Time
- Conclusion: Can Inter Miami Bounce Back in the Concacaf Champions Cup 2025?
In a much-anticipated showdown at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered their first defeat of the 2025 season, losing 1-0 to Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal.
Nathan Ordaz Scores the Decisive Goal for LAFC :Inter Miami vs LAFC Concacaf Champions Cup 2025
While fans filled the stadium to watch the legendary Lionel Messi, it was 21-year-old Nathan Ordaz, a promising homegrown talent, who ultimately stole the show. Ordaz netted the game’s only goal in the 57th minute, securing a crucial victory for LAFC ahead of the second leg.
Ordaz managed to stay on the field after a tense moment in the first half, where he clashed with Inter Miami defender Maxi Falcón in the 27th minute. Despite calls for a red card, the referee issued only a yellow, allowing him to continue—and later become the hero of the match.
“It’s a red card here, in China, and on the moon,” said Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, expressing frustration after his side’s first loss in 10 games under his leadership.
Messi Returns but Misses Opportunities
Messi, playing a full 90 minutes for the first time since his March 16 injury against Atlanta United, looked energetic but was clearly lacking sharpness. The Argentine superstar missed three free kick attempts—two in the first half and one in the final moments of the game.
He also failed to convert two more chances in the 79th and 86th minutes, both times going up against LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, his former rival from the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final.
Despite Inter Miami dominating possession, they couldn’t capitalise on their chances and saw their seven-game winning streak and nine-match unbeaten run come to an end.
Star-Studded Attendance at BMO Stadium
The high-profile match drew in celebrities and sports icons alike. Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and other Golden State Warriors players attended, just ahead of their game against the Lakers. David Beckham, Inter Miami co-owner and former LA Galaxy star, was also present alongside Lionel Richie, Becky G, Kendall Jenner, Chuck Liddell, and Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni.
Inter Miami Faces Setback Ahead of Second Leg
The second leg of the quarterfinal is set for April 9 at 8 p.m. ET at DRV PNK Stadium in Florida. However, Inter Miami will be without Sergio Busquets, who will miss the match due to suspension after picking up another yellow card. His absence could significantly impact the team’s midfield strength.
“Obviously, we didn’t have the best night. But it’s only the first leg,” Mascherano added. “We still have a chance to reach the semifinal.”
Upcoming Fixtures Before Second Leg
Before their rematch, both teams return to Major League Soccer (MLS) action. LAFC will face the Houston Dynamo on Saturday, while Inter Miami will host Toronto FC on Sunday night.
Key Moments Recap
57’ Goal – Nathan Ordaz (LAFC): Right-footed strike gives LAFC the lead.
27’ Controversy – Yellow Card: Ordaz avoids red after incident with Maxi Falcón.
16’ and 37’ – Messi Misses Free Kicks: Both stopped by Hugo Lloris.
Halftime Score: 0-0, despite multiple missed chances by both sides.
Full-time Score: LAFC 1, Inter Miami 0
Match Kickoff Time
Local Time (LA): 8:30 PM
ET (USA): 11:30 PM
Argentina: 12:30 AM (Wednesday)
This result sets the stage for a thrilling second leg as Messi and Inter Miami aim to bounce back and keep their Concacaf Champions Cup dreams alive.
Conclusion: Can Inter Miami Bounce Back in the Concacaf Champions Cup 2025?
The Inter Miami vs LAFC Concacaf Champions Cup 2025 clash has set the stage for an exciting second leg. With Messi seeking redemption and Inter Miami hungry to overturn the deficit at home, fans can expect fireworks in Florida.
Will Messi rise to the occasion? Or will LAFC hold strong and move one step closer to continental glory?
Stay tuned for full coverage, highlights, and expert analysis of the Concacaf Champions Cup 2025.
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