Jamaica’s Cavalier FC Loses to Inter Miami in First Leg of CONCACAF Champions Cup

Inter Miami secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Jamaica’s Cavalier FC in the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup round-of-16 matchup Thursday night, despite the absence of star player Lionel Messi.

The Argentine legend was rested for the second consecutive match as part of the club’s “load management” strategy, though he was present at the stadium.

Miami coach Javier Mascherano showed confidence in his squad’s ability to handle the Caribbean side, but for much of the game, that decision appeared risky. Cavalier impressed with a disciplined defensive structure, energetic midfield play, and dangerous counter-attacks.

The Caribbean team nearly took the lead when Calvin’s effort deflected off Miami’s David Martínez and struck the post in the first half. Moments before halftime, Shaquille Stein found the net for Cavalier, only for the goal to be controversially ruled offside after a lengthy VAR review.

Miami improved after the break and broke the deadlock in the 61st minute when Tadeo Allende capitalized on a goalmouth scramble to fire home. Cavalier, having exerted significant energy in the first half, struggled to maintain their intensity. Their fatigue was exposed in the 83rd minute when Luis Suárez pounced on a defensive miscue to seal the win for Miami.

Despite the defeat, Cavalier earned praise for their spirited performance, with fans anticipating an intense second leg in Kingston on March 13.

With earlier news stating that Messi will play for the first time in Jamaica, only time will tell if the legendary footballer will be on the pitch next week.

See the match highlights below: