Inter Miami in the CONCACAF Champions Cup Semifinals

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Inter Miami completed a dramatic three-goal comeback on April 7, 2025, to book their place in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Two goals down to a dogged opponent, the Herons turned the match around in the second half with incessant pressure and ruthless finishing.

Lionel Messi ignited the comeback with a vintage free-kick strike, bending the ball into the top corner to change momentum. Two more strikes—one via a clinical counterattack led by Luis Suárez and another via a set-piece header from Diego Gómez—put the icing on the cake.

An Intense Comeback Victory

Hard Rock Stadium erupted when the final whistle blew, the culmination of one of the most memorable evenings in the club's short history. The win maintains Inter Miami's hopes of continental glory, with the semifinals now just days away.

The comeback underscored the team's depth that has marked their 2025 campaign. The initial doubt that they couldn't hold a candle to CONCACAF's giants has been erased by this performance, as it indicated that they can indeed keep up with the best. And why wouldn’t they? With talent that’s popular worldwide and among millions across the continent. Considering the increasing interest in soccer also present in Canada, those who love making game predictions will find sports interaction review very helpful for finding a sportsbooks that suit their needs, that comes with a bonus code offering an addition to the deposit.

The semifinals will be an even bigger test of their mettle, and a probable appointment with a Mexican giant like Club América or Monterrey looms. It's a proud moment for MLS fans—Inter Miami is holding the league standard high deep in the tourney.

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Messi's Magic

We can say that Lionel Messi has transformed Inter Miami and the MLS since his arrival in July 2023. The 2022 World Cup winner added immediate credibility, selling out stadiums and increasing the league's global and local reputation.

On the field, his effect has been nothing less than phenomenal: more than 30 goals and 20 assists in MLS play through April 2025 and a Leagues Cup championship in 2023. His 2024 campaign led Inter Miami to the Supporters' Shield, and in 2025, he's kept the club atop the MLS Power Rankings.

Messi's greatness is not all about numbers. He knows how to come through in clutch situations—such as the free-kick in the CONCACAF comeback, and that’s what distinguishes him. At 37, he's transformed his game, saving energy for killer passes and precision finishes instead of all-consuming dribbling.

Off the pitch, his leadership has shaped a young team into contenders, with the likes of Gómez and Benjamin Cremaschi feeding off his example. Naysayers who questioned his MLS move have been quieted—Messi's not cruising; he's reformulating what's possible in the league.

Image by Andres Ida Bianchi

The De Bruyne Buzz

Rumors of the potential transfer of Kevin De Bruyne to Inter Miami sparked intrigue throughout the MLS community.

As of April 8, 2025, it was revealed that Inter Miami holds De Bruyne's MLS discovery rights, meaning they are first in line if the Manchester City midfielder decides to make the switch across the pond.

At 33, De Bruyne is still one of the world's elite playmakers, with a vision and range of passing that could elevate any side. His City deal expires in June 2025, and although he's been touted with Saudi clubs, the prospect of him linking up with Messi in Miami appears to be a pipe dream.

However, MLS roster rules make it tricky. Inter Miami would have to open up a Designated Player spot, perhaps by agreeing to contract extensions with Suárez or Jordi Alba. Salary cap implications and discovery list discussions may hold up any transfer. If so, late 2025 or early 2026 appears reasonable, provided that De Bruyne favors MLS over other high-paying opportunities.

For now, it's a delicious "what if" that has fans excited at the possibility of a De Bruyne, Messi, and Gómez midfield trio running the league.

Inter Miami's semifinal spot is a milestone, but the path to the CONCACAF Champions Cup final will not be straightforward.

The depth of the team will be put to the test, particularly with injuries dogging top players such as Federico Redondo. Nevertheless, with Messi conducting the orchestra and an eager supporting cast, they're a serious contender.

With or without De Bruyne joining the festivities, this team has what it takes to make history. It is an exciting moment for MLS supporters to see Inter Miami compete for titles at the continental level.