'Now that was a proper game!' - David Beckham blown away by Lionel Messi magic as Inter Miami book spot in CONCACAF Champions Cup semis

The Herons headed into the second leg of their quarter-final clash with LAFC trailing 1-0 on aggregate. That deficit was doubled inside 10 minutes, but Javier Mascherano’s side staged a stirring fightback on home soil to prevail 3-1 on the day and keep themselves in the hunt for a prestigious CONCACAF crown.

Unsurprisingly, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi was the man to step up and provide inspiration in a time of need. He crashed a shot into the top corner as Inter Miami grabbed a first-half lifeline, before displaying nerves of steel to convert a late penalty and settle an absorbing contest.

Inter Miami co-owner Beckham was among those watching on from the stands, with the Manchester United and England legend posting on social media after seeing Messi steal the show: “Now that was a proper game of football. 2 good teams competing in front of a sold out stadium of fans that came to be entertained.

“And wow were they entertained - what a win and a special night for us all in Miami. Thank you to La Familia & the special performance from our whole team tonight. On to the next.”

Inter Miami, who remain unbeaten through six MLS fixtures this season, will face domestic rivals the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Champions Cup semi-finals - with Messi up to five goals in the competition.