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Second-half goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez lifted Inter Miami to a 2-0 win over Cavalier SC on Thursday in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in the first leg of a CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 series.

The hosts played without Lionel Messi, who also sat out Miami’s game at Houston on Sunday.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano said regarding Messi, “The doctors told me that he doesn’t have any injuries or scars. He is fatigued after playing three games in six days.

“The changes in weather, there have been a lot of situations. And since we want to take care of him and we don’t want to make him feel fatigued, we decided to give him rest, knowing the risks we’re facing. Obviously, not having the best player in the world is complicated. But we also have to take a step forward and know how to play without him.”

The second and final leg of the total-goal series is scheduled for March 13 in Kingston, Jamaica. Inter Miami will play host to Charlotte FC in an MLS game on Sunday.

The Thursday contest was scoreless until the 61st minute. Inter Miami had a corner kick from the right side, but Allende’s looping header was saved. The ball stayed in play near the left goalpost, and after a scramble in front, it came out to Allende at the penalty spot. From there, Allende left no doubt with a left-footed strike through traffic.

Suarez sealed the victory by scoring on a 16-yard shot with his left foot in the 83rd minute.

The winner of the series will oppose either Los Angeles FC or the Columbus Crew in the quarterfinals.

–Field Level Media