Introduction to the Concacaf Champions Cup Semifinals
Inter Miami may have just been dealt a warning in the Concacaf Champions Cup — the future is now. Despite having Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, Miami could not overcome a 2-0 first-leg deficit to the Vancouver Whitecaps, losing the second leg at home 3-1 (5-1 aggregate).
First-Leg Deficit and Second-LegPerformance
Miami even found the net first — and most importantly, early — in the second leg. Messi found Suarez, who then assisted Alba for the finish in the ninth minute.
But Miami, for all its possession and shots, just couldn’t find the crucial equalizer that would’ve saved the side.
Turning Point and Vancouver’s Victory
Instead, the second half saw Vancouver take full control behind its most in-form players. American striker Brian White delivered the dagger in the 51st minute, with Pedro Vite following suit just two minutes later. Sebastian Berhalter, son of ex-U.S. men’s national team coach and current Chicago Fire manager Gregg Berhalter, put the final nail in the coffin with a 71st-minute strike following some chaos in the Miami box.
Road to the Final and MLS Performance
Vancouver will play in the final for a chance at its first ever triumph in the tournament. Also faring well in MLS, the Whitecaps will play either Tigres or Cruz Azul in the final. The two Liga MX sides are level at 1-1 entering the second leg on Thursday. Former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard shares his thoughts on how MLS goalkeepers can stop Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi.
Concerns for Inter Miami
As for Miami, head coach Javier Mascherano has plenty to sort out to ensure his team can still remain competitive at the top of the food chain. Last season, Miami fell victim to a first-round playoff exit despite being the No. 1 seed and Supporters’ Shield winners. With Miami’s stars only getting older and not many elite young talents supporting them, another early exit could be on the horizon come postseason time.
Conclusion
The elimination of Inter Miami from the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals serves as a wake-up call for the team. Despite having a star-studded lineup, Miami was unable to overcome the deficit against Vancouver. As the team moves forward, it will be essential to address the concerns and work towards building a more competitive and sustainable roster.
FAQs
- Q: Who eliminated Inter Miami from the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals?
A: Vancouver Whitecaps eliminated Inter Miami with a 5-1 aggregate score. - Q: What was the score in the second leg of the semifinals?
A: Vancouver won the second leg 3-1. - Q: Who will Vancouver play in the final?
A: Vancouver will play either Tigres or Cruz Azul in the final. - Q: What are the concerns for Inter Miami moving forward?
A: Inter Miami’s stars are getting older, and there is a lack of elite young talents supporting them, which could lead to another early exit in the postseason.
