Despite Messi‘s return from injury, Monterrey secured a convincing 5-2 aggregate victory over Inter Miami, sending them crashing out of the CONCACAF Champions Cup at the quarterfinal stage.
Mexican team Monterrey sealed their advancement to the semifinals with a well-deserved 3-1 victory in the second leg, setting up a clash with Major League Soccer champions Columbus. Goals from Brandon Vazquez, German Berterame, and Jesus Gallardo sealed Monterrey’s win.
Inter Miami, trailing 2-1 after the first leg, hoped Messi’s presence would bolster their chances. However, Monterrey looked sharper in all aspects, with Vazquez capitalizing on a goalkeeping error from Miami’s Drake Callender to open the scoring.
¡Remate y G⚽L!🔥🔥🔥
¡De esta forma “Rayardo” anotaba el tercero de la noche y así lo festejó!🤠🙌🏼 #LenteRayado pic.twitter.com/GX9chLMmOc
— Rayados (@Rayados) April 12, 2024
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Despite limited chances for Miami, including a missed opportunity from Messi, Monterrey extended their lead with Berterame’s stunning strike and Gallardo’s header.
Miami’s frustration grew as former Barcelona defender Jordi Alba was sent off, with Diego Gomez scoring a late consolation goal from Messi’s free kick.
The CONCACAF Champions Cup serves as the top regional club competition for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Mexican clubs, historically dominant, continue to assert their dominance, with this year’s winner earning a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup.
