Inter Miami CF put themselves in a strong position to advance in the Concacaf Champions Cup, securing a 2-0 victory over Jamaica’s Cavalier SC in the first leg of their Round of 16 matchup.
Despite missing Lionel Messi, who was rested due to muscle fatigue, Inter Miami stepped up when it mattered. The game remained competitive in the first half, with Cavalier showing early attacking intent. However, Miami gradually took control, and in the 61st minute, Tadeo Allende found the back of the net after a defensive lapse from Cavalier. Luis Suárez then doubled the lead in the 83rd minute with a well-placed shot, giving his team a comfortable cushion heading into the second leg.
After the game, coach Javier Mascherano explained that Messi’s absence was a precautionary move to keep him fresh for upcoming games. Meanwhile, Sergio Busquets acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete for the title.
The return leg is set for March 13 in Jamaica, where Cavalier will need a big performance to turn things around, while Inter Miami looks to finish the job and move on to the quarterfinals.
