Inter Miami CF kicked off its 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup campaign with a thrilling 0-1 victory against Sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park. The match was highlighted by a stunning goal from captain Lionel Messi, showcasing his exceptional skill and precision.
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi scored the only goal of the match in the 56th minute.
- Inter Miami controlled 59% of possession and had 11 shots compared to Sporting KC's 7.
- This match marked head coach Javier Mascherano's first official game in charge of Inter Miami.
Match Overview
The match began with both teams displaying a cautious approach, but Inter Miami quickly established dominance in possession. The first half saw several close attempts, particularly from Luis Suárez, who came close to scoring on two occasions. Despite the pressure, the first half ended without any goals.
Messi's Decisive Moment
The breakthrough came in the second half when Messi showcased his brilliance. In the 56th minute, he expertly controlled a long pass from Sergio Busquets, taking a touch to create space before firing a right-footed shot into the net. This goal not only marked Messi's first of the 2025 season but also proved to be the match-winner.
Defensive Resilience
Following Messi's goal, Inter Miami displayed solid defensive organization, effectively neutralizing Sporting KC's attempts to equalize. Goalkeeper Óscar Ustari was instrumental in maintaining the clean sheet, making three crucial saves throughout the match.
Post-Match Reactions
Head coach Javier Mascherano expressed pride in his team's performance, emphasizing their intensity and attitude. "We’re happy with the result, but we know there’s still work to be done as we prepare for the next match," he stated.
Upcoming Matches
Inter Miami will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their 2025 MLS season opener against New York City FC at Chase Stadium on February 22. Fans are eager to see how the team will perform in their home opener following this important victory.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Sporting KC | Inter Miami |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 41% | 59% |
| Shots | 7 | 11 |
| Saves | 0 | 3 |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Fouls | 8 | 12 |