Inter Miami dominated Charlotte 4-0 to advance in the 2023 Leagues Cup quarterfinals, showcasing the form that has grown since Lionel Messi joined the roster. The Garzas controlled the match at the DVR PNK Stadium, moving closer to their first title in club history with a convincing win.
Charlotte faced a tougher test than their prior meeting, a dramatic 4-4 draw that went to a shootout where Inter Miami prevailed 5-3. This time, the hosts opened the scoring early with a penalty finished by Josef Martinez, giving them a lead they would not relinquish.
Robert Taylor doubled the advantage just before the 30th minute after a sharp connection with DeAndre Yedlin, underscoring the impact Messi has had on the team. The Finn, who has flourished alongside the Argentine star, looked particularly dangerous in midfield and on the break.
In the closing stages, Charlotte pushed for a way back, but an own goal by Adilson Malanda sealed the triumph. With the clock winding down, Lionel Messi added a fourth in the 86th minute, extending his hot streak to eight goals across five appearances—a sign of the mark he could leave on the tournament and the club going forward.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami head into the semifinals where they will meet the winner of the Philadelphia versus Queretaro match. If they advance to the final, their opponent will be Nashville or the victor of the Monterrey and Los Angeles FC clash.
Leagues Cup 2023: dates, teams, fixtures, and the calendar continue to draw attention as the competition progresses toward a climactic finish.
Next up is GOAL’s coverage of the action as it unfolds.
INTER MIAMI – CHARLOTTE FC MINUTE BY MINUTE
THE TARGET EXAMPLE
HOW TO WATCH LIVE ON TV AND STREAMING
The match between Las Garzas and El Acuñado is available for streaming in certain regions, with AppleTV offering MLS Season Pass in South America, Spain, and Mexico.
FORMATION
INTER MIAMI
Drake Callender; DeAndre Yedlin, Sergey Krivtsov, Kamal Miller, Jordi Alba; Dixon Arroyo, Sergio Busquets, Benjamin Cremaschi; Lionel Messi, Josef Martinez and Robert Taylor. DT: Gerardo Martino.
CHARLOTTE FC
Kristian Kahlina; Jaylin Lindsey, Adilson Malanda, Andrew Privett, Harrison Afful; Ashley Westwood; Kamil Jozwiak, Scott Arfield, Brandt Bronico, Benjamin Bender; Karol Swiderski. DT: Christian Lattanzio.