Despite an easy win against Inter Miami in the second leg, coach Monterrey still showed respect for his opponent and especially Lionel Messi.

Monterry coach Fernando Ortiz considers Lionel Messi “the greatest player of all time” and does not mean to insult the owner of 8 Golden Balls.

The story begins before the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal clash between Inter Miami vs Monterrey, coach Fernando Ortiz announced that his team could receive disadvantages from the referee when Inter Miami has Messi in the squad.

Those words were not well received in Florida and contributed to an angry clash in the tunnel after the fiery first leg in Florida. Inter Miami was officially fined by CONCACAF for allowing insecurity to occur.

In the second leg in Mexico, Monterrey continued to win 5-2, causing Inter Miami to be eliminated. After the match, coach Fernando Ortiz commented to the media about what he said in the past.

“I said we were going to beat them, not out of any disrespect to Miami, just because I thought my players would understand what needed to be done. For me, Leo is the greatest player of all time, I don’t mean to offend anyone, I’m just giving my honest opinion.”

USMNT stars Brandon Vazquez, German Berterame and Jesus Gallardo scored for Monterrey as they advanced to the Champions Cup semi-finals, with Ortiz adding: “ As a coach, I was happy to eliminate a great team. Gerardo (Martino) and Leo are good coaches and players recognized around the world. We are very pleased to win the series, but we are thinking about Tigres.”

Monterrey and Inter Miami are now turning their focus back to domestic matches, with Herons – fans hoping to see Messi with no fitness issues – Tata Martino’s side set to make the trip to Sporting Kansas City this weekend.