What happened
We were perhaps treated to the game of the tournament in Fort Lauderdale, as Inter Miami’s 10 men struggled to knock out Toronto in a seven-goal thriller.
Staying in the east, Tigres continued to show why they are currently the hottest Mexican team in the competition, easily overtaking continental champions Pachuca thanks to a goal from playmaker Marcelo Flores from the bench.
As we moved west, Seattle showed a glimpse of its former self, passing the LA Galaxy in a surprise appearance in the Pacific Northwest. Brian Schmetzer’s team led 2-0 seven minutes after two corner kicks.
Finally, after shocking us all and coming out of a group with LA Galaxy and Liga MX giants Chivas, San Jose defeated Necaxa at PayPal Park to keep the tournament alive in style.
Player of the night
There is only one conceivable winner for player of the night, as Jordi Alba put on a show in Miami’s thrilling victory over Toronto, assisting on all four of the Herons’ goals.
Goal of the night
He’s already a rising star in MLS, and individual goals like this will only help his cause.
What does this mean
Miami’s victory means they await the winner of Columbus and Kansas City, potentially setting up a massive showdown between two of the best teams in MLS. Meanwhile, the Tigers will face the winner of Friday’s clash between New England and NYCFC.
In the West, Seattle faces Pumas, from Liga MX, and San Jose sets up an all-Californian clash with LAFC, and does so in good form.
What’s next
The round of 16 continues Friday with a full slate of games. Most notably, Club América and Columbus Crew will enter the fray after automatically progressing to the round of 16.
Image credit: © Dustin Safranek-USA TODAY Sports
