Messi Makes Impact Off The Bench to Help Miami Advance in Jamaica

Despite the home team's hopes of an unexpected victory being crushed, there was still an eruption of cheers from the Jamaican fans as they witnessed the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner play in their country for the very first time.

Miami knew an away goal would kill the tie and they began in positive mode with a long-range drive from Telasco Segovia flashing wide.

A bumpy surface made it tricky for either side to play much in the way of attractive passing football but Miami showed urgency and Luis Suarez flashed a well-struck volley just wide from a tight angle.

Miami lost midfielder David Ruiz to injury with Benjamin Cremaschi replacing him in the centre of the park but the visitors continued to press forward.

The goal came in the 37th minute when Inter's Argentine forward Tadeo Allende went down under a challenge from Christopher Ainsworth and referee Keylor Villalobos pointed the spot.

Suarez confidently rattled home the penalty to give the visitor's a 3-0 lead on aggregate and a cushion of comfort that allowed them to play out the rest of the game with little stress.

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The young Cavalier team, featuring several of the more promising talents from the island nation, never lost heart though, clearly determined to leave their mark on the tournament.

They almost got some reward for their efforts when substitute Kaile Auvray burst in from the left and his low shot was only kept out by a fine save at the near post from Oscar Ustari.

Then came Messi's moment, a classy finish from the 37-year-old, to cap a win that ensures Miami progress into the last eight where they will face Los Angeles FC in an all-MLS tie.

"He felt very good, he scored, the Jamaican people could see him, so it was a great night for everyone," said Miami head coach Javier Mascherano.

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For Cavalier head coach and technical director Rudoph Speid, who has helped the club develop a production line of young talent, it was a night to remember despite the result.

"(The atmosphere) was electrifying. People came here to see Messi in some form or the other. When he came onto the field I made a couple of changes to try and calm everyone down. But, I knew that effect was going to happen," he said. 

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"Our performance was nothing to be ashamed of. I think a lot more young players will come out to play the game, which is what you want," he added.

(This story has not been edited by staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)