Concacaf Champions Cup: What Inter Miami Needs to Fix Before the Second Leg
Inter Miami’s 1-0 loss to Los Angeles FC in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal was a wake-up call. Despite boasting one of the most star-studded lineups in North American soccer, including Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets, the stars fell short in execution and failed to capitalize on key moments. As they prepare for the second leg in Fort Lauderdale, here are the most pressing issues Inter Miami must address to turn things around. Defensive lapses and a lack of urgency in midfield allowed LAFC to dictate the tempo for large portions of the match, exposing cracks in Miami’s game plan. With the second leg looming in Fort Lauderdale, the pressure is mounting—not just to win, but to prove that this ambitious project can rise to the occasion when it matters most. Here are the most pressing issues Inter Miami must address if they hope to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions Cup dreams alive.
One of the biggest concerns was the lack of control in midfield. While Busquets brings experience and poise, LAFC’s younger, quicker midfielders outpaced and outmaneuvered Miami’s engine room for much of the match. To win the second leg, Miami must dictate the tempo and cut off LAFC’s transitions. Integrating more support from Diego Gómez or Julian Gressel could provide the necessary balance and dynamism. The defensive lapse that led to a stunning strike in the 56th minute was emblematic of a broader issue: lack of urgency and awareness in the backline. Miami’s defense, particularly the center-back pairing, allowed too much space and failed to close down shooters. Against an LAFC side that thrives on quick counters and precision in the final third, tighter marking and better positioning will be non-negotiable.
Lionel Messi had a few chances to level the score but was denied by LAFC keeper Hugo Lloris, who delivered a man-of-the-match performance. Still, Inter Miami was far too wasteful in the final third. With the quality of attackers available, there’s no excuse for not converting chances. The chemistry between Messi and Suárez needs to click at the right time, and Josef Martínez or Leonardo Campana might need to be considered as alternate offensive sparks.
Head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino must be willing to adjust tactically. Whether that means shifting to a 4-4-2 for more defensive solidity or pushing the fullbacks higher up to overload the flanks, adaptation will be critical. At home, with the crowd behind them, Miami can’t afford to play passive football. The return leg isn’t just a chance for redemption—it’s a test of character. With a place in the semifinals on the line, Inter Miami needs to bring intensity, cohesion, and tactical intelligence to have any shot at advancing.
