Inter Miami Cruises Past Pumas Without Messi in Leagues Cup Showdown
So, even without Lionel Messi on the pitch, Inter Miami didn’t miss a beat against Pumas UNAM in their latest Leagues Cup matchup. The Herons proved they've got depth and talent beyond their superstar as they claimed a convincing 3-1 win Wednesday night at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Messi, sidelined with a minor muscle injury in his upper right leg, was spotted watching from a suite near the field, cheering his team on. While fans may have been disappointed not to see him play, they got treated to an entertaining performance by his old friends — including Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul — who stepped up in a big way to keep Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup run alive.
It all started a bit shaky though. Pumas struck first in the 34th minute with Jorge Ruvalcaba sneaking behind the defense and finding the back of the net. That goal could’ve rattled Miami, but instead, it sparked a response.
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Right before halftime, De Paul, the Argentine World Cup winner, made his mark with a crucial equalizer. Assisted by Suarez, De Paul netted his first goal for Inter Miami, tying the game 1-1 in the 45th minute. That moment seemed to turn the tide completely.
Then came the second half, and it was Suarez's time to shine. After nearly scoring early in the half (a goal ruled offside), he eventually got on the scoresheet with a penalty kick in the 59th minute. The goal followed a handball call on Pumas defender José Caicedo. Suarez made no mistake from the spot and celebrated in style — wearing a cowboy hat with his daughter’s name on it, in honor of her 15th birthday.
The third goal came not long after. In the 69th minute, Tadeo Allende finished off a brilliant assist from Suarez, sealing the 3-1 lead and putting the game out of reach for Pumas.
That win not only gave Inter Miami eight points in the Leagues Cup standings but also ensured their advancement to the quarterfinals, regardless of other results. For a team missing their captain and biggest star, this was a huge statement.
With Messi’s return still up in the air, Inter Miami now prepares for their next challenges — an MLS showdown with Orlando City on August 10, and then the L.A. Galaxy a few days later. But if this game proved anything, it’s that Inter Miami isn’t just Messi’s team — there’s a squad full of experienced players ready to carry the torch when needed.
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