The Columbus Crew delivered a stunning blow to Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup hopes on Tuesday, clinching a dramatic 3-2 victory in a match that had fans on the edge of their seats. Diego Rossi was the hero of the night, scoring twice in the second half to propel the reigning MLS champions into the tournament’s quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Inter Miami, who were without their talisman Lionel Messi due to a lingering right ankle injury, saw their title defense come to an abrupt end.
First Half: A Strong Start for Inter Miami
The match kicked off with Inter Miami demonstrating why they were the defending champions. Paraguayan midfielder Matias Rojas opened the scoring early, netting a goal in the 10th minute that gave Miami a quick 1-0 lead. The goal was a testament to Miami’s attacking prowess, even in Messi’s absence.
As the first half progressed, the Crew struggled to find their rhythm, with Miami’s defense holding firm. The match appeared to be slipping away from Columbus as Diego Gomez doubled Miami’s lead in the 62nd minute, making it 2-0 and seemingly putting the game out of reach for the Crew.
Second Half: The Comeback Begins
However, Columbus was far from finished. Just five minutes after Gomez’s goal, US striker Christian Ramirez sparked hope for the Crew by scoring in the 67th minute, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. The goal ignited a fire in the Columbus side, who began to press higher and play with increased intensity.
Diego Rossi, who had been relatively quiet in the first half, came alive in the second. In the 69th minute, he leveled the score with a well-placed shot that left Miami’s defense scrambling. The momentum had shifted, and the Columbus fans could sense something special was happening.
Rossi wasn’t done yet. In the 80th minute, he struck again, this time with a decisive goal that sealed the match at 3-2. His brace not only secured the victory but also showcased the resilience and quality of the Columbus Crew, who refused to be counted out despite being two goals down.
Aftermath: The Road Ahead for the Crew
With this victory, Columbus advanced to the Leagues Cup quarter-finals, where they will face New York City FC, who themselves pulled off an impressive 2-1 win over Tigres. The Crew’s ability to come from behind and their strong finishing in the second half have made them a team to watch as the tournament progresses.
Inter Miami’s Struggles Without Messi
For Inter Miami, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. Lionel Messi’s absence was keenly felt, as the team struggled to maintain their composure and attacking fluidity without their star player. Messi, who had been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury in Argentina’s Copa America final win over Colombia, was sorely missed. His ability to change the course of a game was something Miami desperately needed but could not find in his absence.
Miami’s early exit from the Leagues Cup raises questions about their depth and reliance on Messi. While they remain a formidable side, this match highlighted the challenges they face without their star man.
Other Leagues Cup Highlights
Elsewhere in the tournament, New York City FC made a remarkable comeback to secure their spot in the quarter-finals. Argentine midfielder Maxi Moralez played a pivotal role, equalizing shortly after Tigres’ opening goal. Santiago Rodriguez then sealed the victory with a left-footed strike in the 65th minute, setting up a tantalizing clash with the Columbus Crew.
Philadelphia Union also advanced, defeating Cincinnati 4-2 in a match where Israeli striker Tai Baribo scored twice to ensure their progression. They will next face Mazatlan, who won a dramatic penalty shootout against Cruz Azul after a 2-2 draw.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diego Rossi scored twice in the second half to secure a 3-2 victory for Columbus Crew.
Lionel Messi was sidelined due to a right ankle injury he suffered during Argentina’s Copa America final win over Colombia.
Columbus Crew will face New York City FC in the quarter-finals.
New York City FC defeated Tigres 2-1, with goals from Maxi Moralez and Santiago Rodriguez.
The final score was 3-2 in favor of Columbus Crew.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
The Columbus Crew’s victory over Inter Miami was not just a win; it was a statement. Overcoming a two-goal deficit against the defending champions without Lionel Messi on the field was a testament to their determination and skill. Diego Rossi emerged as the hero of the night, and his performance will be remembered by Crew fans for years to come.
As the Leagues Cup progresses, all eyes will be on Columbus to see if they can continue their momentum and challenge for the title. For Inter Miami, the focus will now shift to regrouping and ensuring that they bounce back stronger in their next campaign.
