Another trophy for Lionel Messi? Inter Miami learn path to glory in historic CONCACAF Champions Cup campaign

The Florida-based outfit are preparing to enter the continental competition for the first time. Success in the inaugural Leagues Cup – as Messi inspired them to a first trophy within weeks of his arrival in the United States – secured qualification for the Champions Cup.

Messi and Co will not enter the competition until the last-16 stage, but the draw for the first round has been made – with those involved discovering the hurdles they must clear in order to land major silverware. Inter Miami know that they will face either Nashville SC – the side they beat in the 2023 Leagues Cup final – or Dominican Republic minnows Moca in their first outing.

Inter Miami are also on the same side of the draw as in-state rivals Orlando City, MLS Supporters’ Shield winner FC Cincinnati, the Houston Dynamo and St Louis City. If Tata Martino’s side were to make it as far as the semi-finals, then they could come up against the Columbus Crew or Mexican giants Tigres.

Philadelphia Union vs Saprissa

Toluca vs Herediano

Club America vs Esteli

Chivas Gudalajara vs Forge FC

New England Revolution vs CAI

Houston Dynamo vs St Louis City SC

Tigres UNAL vs Vancouver Whitecaps

CF Monterrey vs Comunicacion

FC Cincinnati vs Cavalier

Nashville SC vs Moca FC

Teams entering in the last-16

CF Pachuca

SV Robinhood

LD Alajuelense

Columbus Crew

Inter Miami CF

Ambitious outfits such as the Philadelphia Union, Pachuca, and Club America are also expected to go well and may end up blocking Inter Miami’s path. The first round gets underway on February 6, 2024 – while the round of 16 will take place between March 5-14. Each match is a two-legged affair, with Messi determined to get his hands on another trophy after already becoming the most decorated player in history.