Two stunning goals by Lionel Messi, despite earlier controversy, propelled Inter Miami into the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup, overcoming LAFC with a score of 3-1 (3-2 on aggregate). After falling behind early, Miami rallied from a 2-0 aggregate deficit. Following a disallowed free kick, Messi scored a fantastic goal against Hugo Lloris, the French goalkeeper he famously bested in the 2022 World Cup final.

The Controversial Incident

Messi attempted a direct free kick when the referee appeared to move away. Lloris, setting up his wall, was surprised when Messi curled the ball into the net. Initially awarded, the goal was later disallowed. The referee allowed Messi to retake the kick, which hit the wall.
Here’s the controversial moment:

TOTAL CHAOS 😳
— FOX Soccer @FOXSoccer April 10, 2025

It was an incident open to interpretation, particularly given Messi’s understanding that the referee’s actions indicated play had resumed.

Messi’s Stunning Goal

In the 35th minute, down 1-0 on the scoreboard and 2-0 on aggregate, Messi managed to equalize:

Messi magic 🪄
Inter Miami CF pulls one back! — Major League Soccer @MLS April 10, 2025

Messi’s Clinching Penalty

Inter Miami sealed the comeback by scoring two goals in the second half, with the final goal coming from a penalty after a handball. Messi showed his prowess, calmly converting the penalty shot into the net. He had previously scored two penalties against Lloris in the World Cup final. Here’s his decisive effort:

What a moment for Messi 💗
— FOX Soccer @FOXSoccer April 10, 2025

Finally, goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made key saves to ensure Miami progressed. The team now looks forward to facing the Vancouver Whitecaps in the semifinals, just two games away from the final of this prestigious tournament.