Sports Desk:

Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi found the net as Inter Miami secured a 2-0 victory over Jamaica’s Cavalier SC on Thursday, advancing to the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals.

Suarez, the 38-year-old Uruguayan forward, scored from the penalty spot in the 11th minute. Messi, who entered early in the second half, sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal, ensuring a 4-0 aggregate triumph for Miami.

Inter Miami will now face Los Angeles FC in the quarterfinals, aiming for their first-ever semifinal appearance in the tournament.

“Lio hadn’t played regularly in the last three or four games. We wanted him on the field, but we had to choose the right moment. Tonight was that moment,” Miami coach Javier Mascherano said. “He felt good, and the fans in Jamaica got to see him. It was a fantastic night for everyone.”

Messi’s official debut in the Caribbean generated significant excitement. Upon arrival, he and his Miami teammates were welcomed by Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange.

Cavalier SC, which typically plays in a 3,000-seat venue, relocated the match to the 35,000-capacity National Stadium to accommodate the enthusiastic crowd.

“The reception from the people here was incredible,” Mascherano added. “I’m pleased with our performance—it was a big step forward for us.”

Jamaican fans erupted in celebration when Messi, the World Cup-winning Argentine, capped the match with a close-range goal in the final minute, converting a cross from Santiago Morales.