In a thrilling quarter-final clash, Mexican side Monterrey secured a commanding 5-2 aggregate victory over Inter Miami, sending Lionel Messi and his teammates crashing out of the tournament. Despite Messi's return to the starting lineup after a month-long injury absence, Monterrey's superiority was evident as they clinched a well-deserved 3-1 win on the night.

The Liga MX outfit showcased their dominance early on, with goals from Brandon Vazquez, German Berterame, and Jesus Gallardo sealing the victory. Vazquez capitalized on a goalkeeping error to open the scoring, while Berterame's stunning strike and Gallardo's well-timed header further extended Monterrey's lead.

Inter Miami struggled to match their opponents' intensity, with Messi's former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez seeing a goal disallowed for offside. Despite a late consolation goal from Diego Gomez, courtesy of Messi's free-kick, Miami's efforts fell short.

The defeat sees Monterrey progress to the semi-finals, where they will face Major League Soccer champions Columbus. As the CONCACAF Champions Cup continues, Mexican clubs maintain their dominance, with Monterrey aiming to add to their rich history in the competition.

The CONCACAF Champions Cup serves as the premier regional club competition for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, with the winner earning a coveted spot at the FIFA Club World Cup. With Mexican clubs having secured the trophy 38 times since its inception in 1962, Monterrey remains a formidable contender in the quest for continental glory.