Nathan Ordaz scored in the 57th minute, leading Los Angeles FC to a 1-0 victory over Inter Miami in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal. This win also marked the first time Lionel Messi was held scoreless in the tournament since joining Miami, as LAFC’s defense kept him in check despite his five shots on goal.
Messi, who had been recovering from an adductor injury, played the full 90 minutes. Despite a few close attempts, he couldn’t find the back of the net, with LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris making key saves. LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo emphasized the importance of team effort in defending against top-tier players like Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets.
Miami’s defeat ended their seven-match winning streak under new head coach Javier Mascherano, who acknowledged the challenge posed by LAFC’s performance but remained optimistic about the second leg. “We know LAFC has good players, but I believe we can do the right things to advance,” Mascherano said.
The second leg is scheduled for April 9 in Fort Lauderdale. The winner will move on to the semifinals, facing either Vancouver Whitecaps or Pumas, who played to a 1-1 draw in their first leg.
Ordaz’s decisive goal came after he skillfully maneuvered around Busquets and fired a powerful shot into the corner of Miami’s net. His performance added to his growing reputation, having previously scored in a Champions Cup match against Columbus.
Despite a controversial moment in the first half where Ordaz avoided a red card after an altercation with Maxi Falcón, the match remained competitive. Cherundolo supported the referee’s decision, noting the complexity of the situation.
NBA stars Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler were among the packed crowd, adding to the high-profile atmosphere of the match.