Inter Miami CF secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup after defeating Cavalier FC 2-0 in the second leg of their Round of 16 matchup at National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica. With a 4-0 aggregate victory, Inter Miami continued its strong run in the tournament, propelled by goals from Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.
The second leg started as a closely contested battle, with both sides creating early opportunities. Inter Miami was forced into an early substitution in the 17th minute, as Benjamin Cremaschi replaced an injured David Ruiz. Despite the setback, Miami soon began to take control, with Suárez and Sergio Busquets testing Cavalier’s defense with early attempts.
The breakthrough came in the 37th minute when Luis Suárez calmly converted a penalty kick, bringing his tally to three goals in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. The goal put Miami firmly in control of the tie, adding to their 2-0 advantage from the first leg.
In the second half, Lionel Messi entered the match in the 53rd minute to the delight of a packed and energetic crowd in Kingston. The Argentine superstar made an immediate impact, putting the game beyond doubt in stoppage time. Academy product Santiago Morales provided a perfectly weighted pass into the box, and Messi finished with his signature left foot to make it 2-0 on the night. The assist marked Morales’ first for the Inter Miami First Team.
While the attack delivered another strong performance, Inter Miami’s defense held firm once again. Goalkeeper Óscar Ustari recorded his second consecutive clean sheet in the tournament, ensuring that Cavalier had little hope of mounting a comeback. The backline, anchored by experience and composure, played a crucial role in securing the series win.
With the victory, Inter Miami advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face LAFC in a highly anticipated matchup. The first leg will take place in Los Angeles between April 1-3, with the return leg set for Chase Stadium in Miami between April 8-10.
As Messi, Suárez, and company continue their Champions Cup journey, Inter Miami will look to build on their momentum and push for their first continental title.
