Messi shines in freezing conditions as Inter Miami edge Sporting KC in CONCACAF Champions Cup

Despite subzero wind chills and frigid temperatures, Lionel Messi made the difference for Inter Miami, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Sporting Kansas City on Wednesday in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup opening-round clash. The match, originally scheduled for Tuesday, was postponed due to extreme weather conditions, with kickoff temperatures recorded between 7 and 9 degrees Fahrenheit.

Messi broke the deadlock in the 56th minute after Sergio Busquets delivered a perfectly weighted pass from midfield. The Argentine maestro controlled the ball with his chest, weaved past a defender, and calmly slotted a right-footed shot into the far corner. The two-legged series will conclude next Tuesday in Fort Lauderdale, where Miami will look to secure their spot in the next round.

Seattle Sounders took a major step toward advancing with a 3-1 triumph over Antigua in Guatemala. Pedro de la Vega’s stunning long-range strike in the 61st minute proved to be the turning point, breaking a 1-1 deadlock. Albert Rusnak sealed the win deep into stoppage time, finishing off a well-worked team move.

Paul Arriola had given Seattle an early lead in the third minute before Antigua’s Oscar Santis responded in the 24th. The decisive second leg is set for February 26 in Seattle.

Goalkeeper Rafael Cabral made five crucial saves to help Real Salt Lake earn a 0-0 draw against Herediano in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican side dominated with an 18-7 advantage in total shots, but RSL’s resolute defense held firm.

Herediano’s Dany Carvajal was called into action twice as Real Salt Lake struggled to create clear chances. The second leg, scheduled for February 26 in Utah, will determine who advances to face reigning MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy in the round of 16.

FC Cincinnati took full control of their series with a commanding 4-1 win over FC Motagua in Tegucigalpa. Pavel Bucha starred with a brace, while Evander contributed a goal and an assist.

Bucha opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a powerful left-footed strike, but Rodrigo Auzmendi equalized for Motagua before halftime. Kevin Denkey put Cincinnati ahead for good in the 49th minute, netting his first goal for the club, before Bucha added his second. Evander capped off the performance with a late insurance goal.

The two sides will meet again next Wednesday in Cincinnati, where the MLS side will look to complete the job and advance to the next stage.

SportsLigue