Whitecaps Ready to Steal Spotlight from Messi as Vancouver Hosts CONCACAF Semifinal

Vancouver Whitecaps head coach Jesper Sorensen isn’t concerned that his team may be taking second billing to Lionel Messi when they host Inter Miami in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal on Thursday night.

Over 52,000 fans are expected to pack B.C. Place — many hoping to catch a glimpse of the Argentinian legend in action. But Sorensen says his focus is squarely on the game, not the spectacle.

“Lionel Messi has been maybe the best player of all time, and he deserves the praise,” Sorensen said. “But this is not Messi vs. Vancouver. It’s Miami vs. Vancouver.”

Messi, who disappointed fans by skipping last year’s MLS matchup in Vancouver, was seen training with his team Thursday at the Whitecaps' UBC facility. Still, Miami coach Javier Mascherano wouldn’t say whether he’ll start or how long he’ll play.

“This is one of the most important games in our club’s history,” Mascherano said. “We’ll see tomorrow.”

With the semifinal played over two legs, Messi’s role may depend on how the match unfolds. An early Miami lead could mean less playing time. If the Whitecaps strike first, expect Miami to deploy its superstar in full force.

A Focused Whitecaps Squad

Whitecaps players know the challenge Messi presents. Midfielder Ali Ahmed, who has played against him while representing Canada, emphasized the need for discipline.

“You can’t give him space,” said Ahmed. “We’ll need a collective effort to keep him in check.”

Defender Tristan Blackmon echoed the sentiment: “You prepare differently if he’s playing — he changes the game. But we’re focused on our own plan and how we can impose ourselves on the match.”

The Whitecaps will be without captain Ryan Gauld due to a knee injury, but Sam Adekugbe and Jayden Nelson are expected to return.

Vancouver is riding strong form into the semifinal, leading the Western Conference with a 6-1-2 MLS record and sitting second in league scoring. Their path to the semifinal included gritty, dramatic finishes — tying both home legs before advancing on away goals against Pumas and Monterrey.

Miami, meanwhile, is unbeaten in MLS play with a 5-0-3 record and sits third in the Eastern Conference.

Blocking Out the Noise

Despite the fanfare around Messi, striker Brian White says the Whitecaps are dialed in.

“Once the whistle blows, it’s just about the game,” said White, who has scored six goals this season. “You’re not thinking about the name on the jersey — you’re thinking about doing your job and getting the result.”

Thursday’s clash at B.C. Place is the first half of a 180-minute battle. The second leg will be played in Florida at Chase Stadium next Wednesday.

The winner will advance to face either Mexico’s Cruz Azul or Tigres UNAL in the Champions Cup final on June 1 — and earn a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup.

For the Whitecaps, this semifinal isn’t just about taking on Messi — it’s about making their mark on the international stage.