Inter Miami sealed a spot in the Leagues Cup knockout stage with a commanding 3-1 win over Pumas UNAM, thanks to a vintage performance from Luis Suárez — proving they can thrive even without Lionel Messi.
Playing at home in Chase Stadium, Inter Miami needed a win to keep their tournament hopes alive after Messi was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Despite trailing early, the Herons delivered a composed comeback powered by star-studded contributions from Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Tadeo Allende.
Pumas Strike First, But De Paul Responds
Pumas took the lead in the 34th minute with a goal from Jorge Ruvalcaba, putting pressure on the hosts. But just before halftime, Inter Miami’s new midfield general Rodrigo De Paul leveled the score in style — netting his debut goal with help from a well-placed Suárez cross.
De Paul, who arrived this summer from Atlético Madrid and is a close friend of Messi from Argentina’s national team, continues to make an immediate impact. His goal changed the momentum and sent Miami into the break on level terms.
Suárez Delivers in Style
Luis Suárez rolled back the years in the second half, scoring a 59th-minute penalty to give Inter Miami the lead. The Uruguayan forward didn’t stop there — ten minutes later, he set up Tadeo Allende with a precise through ball that sealed the 3-1 win.
It was a much-needed return to form for Suárez, who ended a nine-game goal drought and reminded fans why he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
“I’m happy for Luis,” said head coach Javier Mascherano post-match. “It’s not just the goal — it’s his movement, the assists, and everything he gives to the team.”
Suarez Leads by Example
Suárez led the match in multiple attacking metrics:
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6 shots
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2 shots on target
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6 touches inside the opposition box
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3 chances created
Only Jordi Alba created more chances on the night, with six.
Miami Advances to Knockouts
The win pushes Inter Miami into the Leagues Cup knockout stages, finishing second in their group behind Seattle Sounders, who edged out Club Tijuana 2-1. The Herons now await their quarterfinal opponent, while keeping an eye on Messi’s recovery timeline.
Suarez Celebrates with Daughter’s Tribute
After scoring, Suárez was seen wearing a cowboy hat with his daughter’s name, Delfina, in a heartwarming celebration marking her 15th birthday. He sent her kisses from the pitch, creating a moment that delighted fans on social media.
Florida Derby Up Next
Next up, Inter Miami will face Orlando City on Sunday, August 10, in a highly anticipated MLS clash. Orlando is also coming off a strong 5-1 win over Necaxa, where Luis Muriel scored a record-breaking hat-trick in just 11 minutes and 30 seconds — the fastest in Leagues Cup history.
Despite that result, Orlando still needs to secure qualification. Meanwhile, Miami has the upper hand in momentum — and belief.
“Even without Messi, we’ve shown we can compete and win,” said Allende post-match. “We miss him, of course, but we’re confident in our team.”
Key Takeaways:
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Final Score: Inter Miami 3-1 Pumas UNAM
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Goals: De Paul (45’), Suárez (59’ pen), Allende (69’) | Ruvalcaba (34’)
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Messi Status: Out with hamstring injury, cheered from the sidelines
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Man of the Match: Luis Suárez (1 goal, 2 assists)
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Next Match: Inter Miami vs Orlando City – Sunday, August 10