Inter Miami vs LAFC: Can the Black & Gold Survive Messi in Miami? | Champions Cup 2nd Leg Preview

Welcome back to Section 128, brought to you by Pitchside USA, your go-to spot for all things Black & Gold.

 

With a ticket to the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals on the line, LAFC heads to South Florida holding a 1-0 lead over Inter Miami. Can they hold off Lionel Messi, Suárez, and Javier Mascherano's high-powered attack at home?

In this extended episode, Celso and Erik are joined by Daniel and Kris (@kbatteredherons) from Battered Herons to break down both sides of the matchup. We dive into Nathan Ordaz’s breakout moment, LAFC’s surprising defensive composure, and what Steve Cherundolo must get right in the second leg.

We also get the Miami perspective: Messi’s recent form (including a goal vs Toronto FC), what changes Miami fans expect in the starting XI with Busquets out, and how they’re heading into the biggest home game of the year.

Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro + Houston game 20:00 – 1st Leg Recap + LAFC’s Youth, Defense & Ordaz’s Moment 40:00 – Guest Segment: Daniel from Battered Herons on Inter Miami’s Approach 1:00:00 – Tactical Setups & Final Predictions

📺 Watch it live or on replay on YouTube . 📣 Drop your score predictions in the comments! #LAFC #InterMiami #Messi #ConcacafChampionsCup #MLS2025 #LAFCvsMiami #PitchsideMLS