Lionel Messi's much-anticipated return to Inter Miami's starting lineup turned into a disappointment as his team bowed out of the Concacaf Champions Cup against Monterrey at BBVA Stadium on Wednesday night.
Miami, trailing 2-1 from the first leg of the quarterfinal, faced a tough challenge, which only intensified as Monterrey managed to contain Messi and netted three goals to win the tie 5-2 on aggregate. "The second goal, 15 minutes into the second half, completely eliminated us from the game. That's where the classification to the semifinal was over for us," said Miami head coach Gerardo "Tata" Martino.
Brandon Vazquez kick-started the scoring for Miami in front of a packed stadium, but Monterrey's Germán Berterame and Jesús Gallardo struck back with two classy goals in the second half, making it nearly impossible for Miami to stage a comeback. Adding to Miami's woes, Jordi Alba was shown a red card late in the game, reducing Miami to 10 players.
Despite a late consolation goal by Diego Gomez from a Messi free kick, Monterrey maintained control to advance to the semifinals. Monterrey will now face the Columbus Crew in the next round.
Reflecting on the defeat, Martino said, "Today's defeat takes away a hope we had, which was to be able to move forward in this competition. The comparison between MLS and Liga MX is useless."
Messi had been sidelined from Miami's starting lineup since March 13 due to a right thigh injury. However, he made a comeback as a substitute and scored a goal in the second half of a recent draw with the Colorado Rapids. Martino had hinted at Messi's return ahead of the match, confirming his fitness and stating that the forward's injury was behind him.
Miami, currently third in MLS' Eastern Conference, will now shift their focus to an upcoming away game against Sporting Kansas City on Saturday.
Login