Inter Miami secured a 2-0 victory over Cavalier SC in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup matchup, despite a lackluster performance without Lionel Messi, who was rested for load management.
Match Recap
The first half was a tense affair, with Cavalier SC coming closest to breaking the deadlock. The Jamaican side hit the post and even found the back of the net before VAR ruled it out for offside after a long review.
Early in the second half, Miami suffered another setback when Maxi Falcon was forced off due to a lower leg injury. But in the 61st minute, winger Tadeo Allende finally broke through, scoring after a chaotic sequence inside the box. Luis Suarez then sealed the win in the 82nd minute, pouncing on a defensive mistake to double Miami’s lead.
Despite the victory, manager Javier Mascherano faced criticism for a disorganized attack and midfield struggles in Messi’s absence.
Key Takeaways
✅ MVP – Tadeo Allende: The Argentine winger scored for the third straight game, proving crucial for Miami.
❌ Biggest Loser – Javier Mascherano: The Miami manager was outcoached and struggled tactically without Messi.
📌 Did You Know? Cavalier SC has never won or scored a goal in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Breakthrough for Miami! 🦩 Tadeo Allende scores to put them ahead! ⚽#ChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/2sXkLhiMXN
— Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) March 7, 2025
What’s Next?
🔜 Leg 2 takes place next Thursday in Kingston, Jamaica.
⚽ Inter Miami vs Charlotte FC in an MLS showdown this weekend.
Match Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
A win is a win, but Inter Miami needs serious improvement before the return leg.
