Inter Miami - Los Angeles FC 10-04-25

We're in for a thrilling second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup when Inter Miami host Los Angeles FC at Chase Stadium. The first meeting between the teams ended in a narrow 1-0 loss for Miami - but if you ask us, it's far from over. Messi, Suárez and the rest of the superstars still have a chance to dance their way through the tournament, and there should be entertainment from the first kick of the ball.

This matchup has it all: two of MLS' most high-profile teams, sparkling attacking players and a semi-final spot in the mix. And with Miami on home turf, where they rarely disappoint, we expect the crowd to have something to cheer about.

Inter Miami: The star gallery will deliver at home

It's no small feat for LAFC in Florida. Inter Miami were actually the team with the most possession in the first leg, with 59% of the game, higher passing accuracy and greater control – but they lacked that last bit of venom in front of goal. We have little hope that will happen again now that the return leg is being played on their own turf.

Lionel Messi is back in the starting lineup and seems in increasingly good physical shape. He recently scored in MLS and still has a foot that can do magic at any time. Luis Suárez has not quite found the same flow as his Argentine partner, but the threat he poses should never be underestimated. At the same time, Benjamin Cremaschi has been a breath of fresh air from the middle, and veteran Busquets provides balance and calm in the build-up.

With seven wins in their last nine home games in all competitions, and goals in 15 (!) straight home games, there's no doubt that Inter Miami know how to put pressure on their opponents at Chase Stadium. We expect a push from the start, and with Messi leading the way, we can expect two goals or more.

Los Angeles FC: The defense must stand against the waves

LAFC secured a crucial 1-0 lead in the first leg, thanks to Nathan Ordaz's goal – but it wasn't exactly convincing. They had just 41% possession and were played low and wide at times by a more dominant Miami team. Still, they should be commended for being effective: four shots on goal, and one goal.

In MLS, LAFC have had a shaky start, and away from home has not been their friend so far in 2025. They have conceded goals in five of their last six away games, losing as recently as March 3-2 to San Diego Loyal. Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris provides security, but the defense around him has proven vulnerable to explosive forward lines – and Inter Miami may have the most explosive of them all.

If they are to have any hope of a semi-final spot, they must either keep a clean sheet – something no one has managed against Inter Miami in Florida since last year – or hope for counter-attack goals that sting.

Conclusion: Anything but goals would surprise

This matchup smells of goals – and perhaps drama – from a long way. Inter Miami will dominate, create chances and chase early goals. They have looked dangerous at home, and Messi seems hungry. LAFC won't fall completely behind, but they will struggle to plug all the gaps when the waves roll in.

We think Inter Miami will score at least two goals in this match – and if it's also written in the stars that Messi delivers one of his magical moments, just sit back and enjoy.

Bet suggestions

CONCACAF Champions Cup at 02:00: Inter Miami - LAFC: Over 1.5 goals to Inter Miami (1.60)

Alternative game:

Inter Miami – LAFC: Lionel Messi scores anytime and Inter wins (2.32)