Luis Suarez praises 'powerful' Monterrey ahead of Champions Cup tie

Luis Suarez praised Inter Miami's Champions Cup quarterfinals opponents Monterrey, citing how "powerful" the Mexican giants are ahead of the first leg on Wednesday night at Chase Stadium.

Suarez's comments can be backed up by their performance thus far in the 2024 Clausura campaign, as Rayados have lost just once in 13 league matches. The five-time Champions Cup winners were on a tear to begin the campaign with eight wins and four draws before stumbling against Chivas de Guadalajara last weekend 2-0 with two players sent off in the defeat.

Much of their early success can be attributed to the form of Brandon Vazquez, who's managed eight goals in 15 appearances for Rayados since joining over the winter transfer window from MLS outfit FC Cincinnati. Vazquez propelled Monterrey into the Champions Cup quarterfinals after scoring in both legs against his former club in the round of 16 to lead his side to a 3-1 triumph on aggregate.

Speaking to the media, Suarez credited the Mexican side and highlighted how impressive it would be for the Herons to take down Rayados and reach the semifinals.

"[Monterrey] is a very powerful team on the football side of things," the ex-Barcelona and Liverpool forward said. "[A place where] many Mexican soccer players want to go play. To win or try to win or even make it difficult for an opponent that is so strong like Monterrey would be a great thing for [Inter Miami]."

Miami will hope to have superstar Lionel Messi back in the side come Wednesday night, but his status remains up in the air with Gerardo 'Tata' Martino set to make a decision ahead of the game. It would be a huge boost for Miami's chances at lifting the Champions Cup in their first crack at it should Messi return to the mix.

Regardless of Messi's fitness, Suarez was adamant that Miami must do everything possible to advance in the competition and keep their hopes alive.

"We have to dream of winning it. Even with the age I have, I still have the desire and want to win. That's why I am here," said Suarez.

Suarez will look to build on his two goals and two assists in Champions Cup play when the Herons welcome Monterrey to Chase Stadium on Wednesday night.

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