¡Increíble pero cierto! Lionel Messi's much-anticipated return to Inter Miami's starting lineup couldn't turn the tide as the team crashed out of the CONCACAF Champions Cup after a 3-1 defeat to Mexico's Monterrey. 😔
Despite the electric atmosphere and high hopes, Monterrey dominated the quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, securing a 5-2 aggregate victory. Goals from Brandon Vazquez, Germán Berterame, and Jesús Gallardo sealed the deal for the Liga-MX giants. 🇲🇽🔥
Inter Miami, trailing 2-1 from last week's first leg in Florida, hoped Messi's magic would spark a comeback. But the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner couldn't weave his usual spells against a Monterrey side that looked sharper in every department. ✨
Early in the match, goalkeeper Drake Callender kept Miami's hopes alive with a stellar save from a bullet header by U.S. international striker Vazquez. However, Monterrey's relentless attack eventually broke through. 🥅
With this victory, Monterrey advances to face the MLS champions Columbus in the semifinals. As for Inter Miami, it's back to the drawing board. Will Messi and his squad bounce back from this setback? Only time will tell! ⏳
Reference(s):
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami crash out of CONCACAF Champions Cup
cgtn.com
