In a night filled with anticipation and high stakes, Inter Miami encountered a formidable obstacle in their quest for CONCACAF Champions Cup glory. Despite a promising start and the support of a hopeful home crowd, the Herons were unable to secure a victory, falling 2-1 to Monterrey in a match that left fans longing for the magic of Lionel Messi. The first leg of the quarterfinals, played on Wednesday, April 3, highlighted the impact of Messi’s absence due to injury, and the team’s performance has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and followers.
A Game of Missed Opportunities and Late Surprises
The clash with Monterrey was seen as a significant hurdle for Inter Miami, coming off a Round of 16 victory against Nashville. Hopes were high that the team could continue its winning ways, but the fitness of star player Lionel Messi, who suffered a hamstring injury in the Nashville tie, was a concern. Despite joining his team for training sessions leading up to the match, Messi was notably absent from the lineup, an absence felt deeply by the team and fans alike.
The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions for Inter Miami supporters. Argentine defender Tomas Aviles gave the Herons an early lead with a stunning shot from a corner kick in the 19th minute. However, the tide began to turn when Robert Taylor exited due to injury, forcing Inter Miami to make an early substitution. The situation worsened when midfielder David Ruiz was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving the team with 10 men.
Monterrey seized the opportunity to rally, with Maximiliano Meza leveling the score in the 69th minute and Jorge Rodriguez securing the win with a beautifully curved shot in the 89th minute. This late comeback by Monterrey has given them a significant advantage with two away goals as they head back to Mexico for the second leg of the tie.
GOLAZOOOOOOOOO
¡VAMOS MONTERREY!!!!! #doop #CCC #MIAvMTY #ConcacafChampionsCup
🎥:TUDN pic.twitter.com/AJl9OJJ5V7— José Roberto Nuñez (@JoserNunez91) April 4, 2024
Fan Reactions: Disappointment and Hope
The sentiment among Inter Miami supporters, particularly those who are also fans of Lionel Messi, was one of frustration and disappointment. Social media platform X became a hub for reactions, with comments reflecting the mood of a fanbase missing their talismanic figure. “This Team is so washed without Messi😑🤦🏿,” lamented one supporter, while another succinctly noted, “Bottled it so easily.”
Despite the defeat, there’s a palpable sense of hope that Messi’s potential return for the second leg could turn the tide for Inter Miami. The team now looks forward to a weekend MLS clash against Colorado Rapids before their crucial return match in Mexico against Monterrey. The presence of Messi, along with other key players like Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, could provide the boost needed to overcome the first-leg deficit.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Redemption
As Inter Miami prepares for the challenges ahead, the focus is on recovery and strategy. The team’s CONCACAF Champions Cup aspirations hang in the balance, but the possibility of Messi’s return offers a glimmer of hope. The second leg against Monterrey on Thursday, April 11, presents an opportunity for redemption and progress to the semifinals.
The coming days will be crucial for Inter Miami as they navigate their MLS commitments and prepare for the rematch with Monterrey. Fans will be eagerly watching for updates on Messi’s fitness and hoping that their team can rise to the occasion, demonstrating resilience and skill on the international stage.
