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Lionel Messi's return was unable to help Inter Miami avoid elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup
Inter Miami's Champions Cup dreams came crashing down in a nightmarish fashion as they suffered a devastating defeat against Rayados, with Jordi Alba's red card compounding their woes.
Despite the return of Lionel Messi to the starting lineup, Inter Miami failed to find their rhythm and struggled to contain Rayados' onslaught at BBVA Stadium. The absence of key players such as Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba was keenly felt as Rayados dominated proceedings.
How it happened
The match began ominously for Inter Miami as goalkeeper Drake Callender's error gifted Rayados the opening goal in the 31st minute, setting the tone for a challenging evening ahead.
Rayados further extended their lead in the second half, with German Berterame unleashing a thunderous strike to double their advantage in the 58th minute. Moments later, Berterame turned provider, setting up Jesus Gallardo for a header to make it 3-0 and effectively seal Rayados' victory.
Inter Miami's woes were compounded when Jordi Alba received his marching orders in the 78th minute after receiving a second yellow card within four minutes, leaving his team with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of the match.
Despite Diego Gomez's late consolation goal in the 85th minute, Inter Miami's fate was already sealed, as Rayados emerged triumphant with a commanding 3-1 victory in the second leg, securing a comprehensive 5-2 aggregate win.
The defeat marked Inter Miami's biggest loss with Lionel Messi on the pitch since his arrival in the summer of 2023, leaving Tata Martino's side reeling from the catastrophic result and dashed hopes of Champions Cup glory.
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