In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, Lionel Messi once again proved why he’s considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.

At 37 years old, the Argentine legend delivered a masterclass performance in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals, guiding Inter Miami to a dramatic 3-1 victory over LAFC.

This win was no ordinary feat—it overturned a daunting 2-0 aggregate deficit, securing Inter Miami’s place in the semifinals and sending fans into a frenzy.

The match, which took place on April 9, 2025, showcased Messi’s enduring brilliance and his ability to turn the tide in high-pressure situations.

Messi’s contribution was nothing short of extraordinary.

He netted two goals, including a crucial penalty, and provided an assist, single-handedly steering his team to victory.

The first goal came as a lifeline for Inter Miami, who were trailing after a 1-0 loss in the first leg. Messi’s second strike, a composed penalty in the 84th minute, sealed the 3-1 scoreline on the night, giving Inter Miami a 3-2 aggregate triumph.

His assist for Noah Allen’s goal in the 61st minute further highlighted his playmaking prowess, as he exploited a defensive error by LAFC with a clever pass to Federico Redondo, setting the stage for Allen’s finish.

This performance wasn’t just about the numbers—it was a testament to Messi’s leadership and ability to deliver when it matters most.

The 2025 season has been a remarkable one for Messi at Inter Miami. In just nine games, he has already scored eight goals and provided three assists, bringing his career goal tally to an astonishing 858.

These figures are a reminder of his unparalleled consistency and scoring ability, even as he approaches the twilight of his career.

Messi’s impact at Inter Miami has been transformative since he joined the Major League Soccer club in July 2023.

His arrival sparked “Messimania,” with his No. 10 jersey becoming the best-selling in the league, and he has since led the team to multiple milestones, including their first-ever trophy in the 2023 Leagues Cup.

What makes this latest performance even more poetic is the opponent: LAFC, led by goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

Fans couldn’t help but draw parallels to the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, where Messi also faced Lloris and scored twice to help Argentina clinch the title.

In that iconic match in Lusail, Messi outwitted Lloris from the penalty spot, and history repeated itself in this Concacaf clash. With the score at 2-1, a VAR-reviewed handball gave Inter Miami a penalty, and Messi stepped up.

He calmly waited for Lloris to commit, then rolled the ball into the opposite corner, leaving the French goalkeeper helpless. It was a moment of déjà vu that underscored Messi’s mental fortitude and clutch ability.

Despite concerns over his fitness in recent years, including a hip injury that caused him to miss Argentina’s match against Brazil earlier in 2025, Messi continues to defy the odds.

His resilience was on full display in this match, as he played the full 90 minutes and showed no signs of slowing down. Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, praised the team’s determination, noting that luck played a role but that their desire to reach the semifinals was evident.

For Messi, this victory is another chapter in a storied career that includes eight Ballon d’Or awards, 45 team trophies, and countless records, such as the most goals for a single club (672 with Barcelona) and the most international goals by a South American male (112).

As Inter Miami prepares to face either Pumas or the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals, Messi’s performance against LAFC serves as a reminder of his enduring greatness.

At 37, he’s not just playing—he’s rewriting the script of what’s possible in football, inspiring a new generation of fans and players alike.

For Inter Miami, having Messi in their ranks is more than a privilege; it’s a game-changer that keeps them dreaming of more historic triumphs.