Inter Miami was handed a 2-0 defeat by the Vancouver Whitecaps in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup semi-final on Thursday, leaving Lionel Messi`s team with a significant challenge ahead in next week`s return match.

Goals from Americans Brian White and Sebastian Berhalter secured a well-earned victory for Vancouver in front of a sold-out crowd of 53,837 at BC Place.

Both teams are seeking their first-ever appearance in the continental final, but Miami, with its star-studded lineup, struggled against a determined Whitecaps side that capitalized on quick counterattacks.

Vancouver made an early impression with their speed on the flanks, and White set up a chance for Daniel Rios, whose shot was blocked by Miami`s Marcelo Weigandt. The breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Pedro Vite floated a ball into the box, allowing White to time his run perfectly and head home his 10th goal in 15 games across all competitions this season.

Messi, largely kept quiet by Vancouver’s tight marking, had limited opportunities and could only produce an ambitious long-range shot in the 29th minute that sailed high over the bar.

The Whitecaps continued to dominate, and Rios saw a header from a corner saved by Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari. The first half ended with Vancouver leading 1-0.

Miami coach Javier Mascherano clearly demanded a stronger response from his players after the break, but their attacks remained slow and predictable. Messi had a free-kick from outside the box that took a deflection but was easily handled by Vancouver’s Japanese goalkeeper, Yohei Takaoka.

Berhalter, the son of former U.S. national team coach Gregg, was a constant presence in the midfield, making intelligent runs and creating opportunities. However, he missed a golden chance to double Vancouver`s lead, firing over the bar after a promising attack.

With just five minutes remaining, Vancouver sealed the win on a counterattack. Winger Jayden Nelson`s low cross found Berhalter at the back post, and this time he made no mistake, finishing emphatically to give the Whitecaps a 2-0 advantage.

Miami pushed forward in the final stages looking for an away goal, but Vancouver’s defense held firm, giving them a two-goal cushion to take to South Florida for Wednesday`s second leg.

"It feels good, but we have one more game to go and can`t get ahead of ourselves. We have to take care of business," said Berhalter, praising his team`s resilience and determination.

The other semi-final between Mexican sides Tigres UANL and Cruz Azul ended 1-1, setting up an exciting second leg in Mexico City next week.