Los Angeles FC - Inter Miami 03-04-25

We're in for a real treat when Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and the rest of the Inter Miami squad head west to face Los Angeles FC in the first quarter-final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. This is the tournament that determines the best team in all of North and Central America – and with so many star names on the pitch, it smells of both high entertainment value and goals.

Inter Miami have looked like a machine in this year's tournament, while LAFC have struggled to find form in MLS – but you should never write off a team that has both home support and experience in these types of matches. And when both world stars and old acquaintances take the stage at BMO Stadium, we expect fireworks.

Los Angeles FC: Trembling a bit in the league – but rising in the Champions Cup

After a promising start to the season, LAFC has suffered some serious setbacks in MLS. Four losses in their last five speak volumes, and there is little indication that they have found their rhythm. Most recently, they lost 3-2 away to San Diego after a first half that coach Steve Cherundolo would rather forget. The defense has leaked, and the offensive game has often become predictable and lacked pace.

But there's something about international tournaments - they often bring out the best in the best. In the round of 16, they beat Columbus Crew 4-2 on aggregate. Denis Bouanga showed flashes of old greatness with two goals, and Hollingshead made an important contribution from deep. Veteran Hugo Lloris is still a reliable stalwart at the back, and their home ground BMO Stadium usually gives them an extra boost.

Not many teams like to travel to LA. Especially not when LAFC plays with a chip on their shoulder. And they do now. The only question is whether it holds up against Messi and co – or whether they will be outplayed by the superstars in pink.

Inter Miami: When Messi and Suárez are in a fight, just buckle up

Many people laughed a little when Inter Miami brought in Messi, Suárez and Busquets last year. Star factory or old boys team? Now it's starting to look like something - and it's scary for the rest of the competitors. The pinks from Florida have won seven straight matches across tournaments, and both Messi and Suárez have delivered goals and magic.

In the CONCACAF Champions Cup, they have made short work of their opponents: 4-0 on aggregate against Cavalier and 4-1 against Sporting Kansas City. Suárez netted three of the goals, Messi one, and midfield anchor Busquets has made the team flow better than ever. Benjamin Cremaschi has also shown his speed and excitement, and it all looks increasingly coordinated.

Miami have struggled a bit on the road in the past, but this form is no slouch. When Messi starts the attacks and Suárez lurks in the box, it's easy for the goals to flow in. The biggest question may not be whether they score, but whether they can control the pace in a game that can quickly become hectic.

Conclusion: We believe in goals – both ways

This is a dream match for neutrals. Messi and Suárez away, Bouanga at home, and a quarter-final with great prestige. LAFC have not been consistent in the league, but we know they can rise against great opposition. And Inter Miami have been unstoppable of late – but they are not infallible at the back.

We expect both teams to get their chances. And with the stars ready to take advantage of them, it seems almost naive to believe in a goalless affair.

Both teams to score? Quite likely. Over 2.5 goals? Not bad either. But we'll start with the sure thing.

Bet suggestions

CONCACAF Champions Cup at 04:00: Los Angeles FC - Inter Miami: Both teams score (1.62)

Alternative game:

CONCACAF Champions Cup at 05:30: Los Angeles FC - Inter Miami: Over 1.5 goals Inter Miami (2.38)

Long shot:

CONCACAF at 05:30: Los Angeles FC - Inter Miami: Lionel Messi scores anytime (2.40)