Los Angeles FC secured a crucial 1-0 win against Inter Miami in the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal on Wednesday. Nathan Ordaz’s second-half strike made the difference, while LAFC’s defense kept Lionel Messi from scoring.
Ordaz’s Stunning Goal Lifts LAFC
21-year-old Nathan Ordaz scored the only goal in the 57th minute, evading Sergio Busquets before smashing a powerful shot into the bottom corner from outside the box. This was his second Champions Cup goal, following his strike against Columbus last month.
Ordaz was also involved in a controversial moment in the first half when he tangled with Miami’s Maxi Falcón. Miami argued he threw a punch, but after a video review, he received only a yellow card.
Inter Miami: Messi’s Struggles in Los Angeles
Messi, returning from an adductor injury, played the full match but couldn’t find the net. He had five shots, with two on target, both saved by LAFC’s Hugo Lloris. The Argentine superstar also had several free-kick opportunities but failed to convert.
Second Leg and What’s Next
Inter Miami and LAFC will meet again in Fort Lauderdale on April 9 for the second leg. The winner on aggregate will advance to the semifinals to face either the Vancouver Whitecaps or Pumas, who drew 1-1 in their first-leg clash.
LAFC, runners-up in this tournament in 2020 and 2023, ended a five-match winless streak with this victory. Meanwhile, Miami, the current MLS leaders, will look to bounce back at home.
