Inter Miami CF's exhilarating journey in the 2023 Leagues Cup quarterfinals unfolded in spectacular fashion as they secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Charlotte FC. The intense clash, witnessed by a fervent crowd at the DRV PNK Stadium helped Inter Miami propel into the semifinals of the coveted tournament.
In the 10th minute, Dixon Arroyo was fouled inside the box, awarding the hosts a penalty. Striker Josef Martínez coolly converted the kick, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Miami an early 1-0 lead. Martínez's goal marked his second in the 2023 Leagues Cup and eighth in all competitions this season.
The relentless pursuit of goals continued, and in the 32nd minute, a splendid team effort doubled Miami's advantage. Sergio Busquets delivered an exquisite long ball to DeAndre Yedlin on the right flank, who provided a precise low pass for winger Robert Taylor's well-timed run into the box. Taylor's composed first-time finish extended the lead, showcasing Inter Miami's fluid attacking chemistry.
The second half saw both teams striving for opportunities, but it was Inter Miami who seized control. In the 78th minute, a Charlotte own goal from a cross by the second-half substitute Diego Gómez expanded Miami's lead to 3-0, further securing their dominance.
Lionel Messi, the linchpin of Inter Miami's attack, left an indelible mark in the 86th minute. He orchestrated a perfectly timed through ball for Leonardo Campana, who calmly assessed his options inside the box before providing Messi the chance to slot the ball into the net with a left-footed strike. This goal was Messi's eighth in the competition, elevating him to the joint top scorer alongside Martínez.
Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, the head coach of Inter Miami, lauded the team's performance, emphasizing the importance of clean sheets and the varied sources of their goals.
The 4-0 triumph solidified Inter Miami's place in the Leagues Cup semifinals, celebrating their fifth consecutive win and a second clean sheet in the competition. Looking ahead, they are poised to face the Philadelphia Union in a riveting semifinal clash on Tuesday, August 15, at Subaru Park.
