Inter Miami squanders a 2-0 lead, falling 3-2 to Columbus Crew and getting eliminated from the Leagues Cup.

Aug 13, 2024 – Columbus, Ohio, USA – In a dramatic Round of 16 clash at Lower.com Field, the Columbus Crew eliminated defending Leagues Cup champions Inter Miami CF with a 3-2 victory. Inter Miami, who had led 2-0, saw their advantage evaporate as the Crew mounted a comeback with three unanswered goals.

The match, which featured a potential preview of the MLS Eastern Conference finals, began with Miami in control. Diego Gomez opened the scoring for Miami in the 10th minute with a header from a cross by Matias Rojas. Gomez extended the lead to 2-0 in the 62nd minute with a well-placed shot, assisted by Luis Suarez.

However, Columbus surged back with two goals in quick succession. Christian Ramirez started the comeback in the 67th minute, followed by Diego Rossi's strike just two minutes later. Rossi then secured the win with his second goal in the 80th minute, ending Miami’s hopes of a consecutive Leagues Cup title.

Despite Miami’s late attempts to equalize, including two clear chances in the final moments, the team was unable to score. Coach Tata Martino expressed disappointment, noting that Miami had performed well for 65 minutes but faltered in the crucial moments. He also reflected on the team’s improvements since their earlier Champions Cup loss to Monterrey.

Midfielder Yannick Bright acknowledged the challenge of facing a team like Columbus and emphasized the need for better resilience in such situations.

The Crew’s victory propels them into the quarterfinals, where they will face New York City FC. Inter Miami, who were missing captain Lionel Messi due to injury, will look to refocus on their MLS Cup campaign. Their next match is scheduled for August 24 against FC Cincinnati.

Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald