Luis Suarez played a crucial role as Inter Miami secured their place in the Major League Soccer playoffs with a 2-0 win over Cincinnati at Chase Stadium. Despite being reduced to ten men, Miami clinched their spot in the postseason with Suarez scoring both goals in quick succession.
Match Summary:
- Goals: Luis Suarez scored just 32 seconds into the game and added another goal five minutes later.
- Absences: Inter Miami played without Lionel Messi, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury since July 14.
- Defensive Setback: Miami’s Argentine defender, Tomas Aviles, was sent off three minutes before halftime for a second yellow card.
Key Moments:
- Early Goals: Suarez’s goals came from a well-placed cross by Marcelo Weigandt and a sharp finish following a one-two with Matias Rojas.
- Tom Brady’s Presence: Former NFL star Tom Brady was in attendance, adding to the match’s high profile.
- Cincinnati’s Struggles: Despite introducing Luciano Acosta in the second half, Cincinnati couldn’t overcome their fourth consecutive league loss.
Playoff Implications:
- Miami’s Position: With this win, Miami is now eight points clear of Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference.
- Messi’s Return: Miami anticipates Messi will return before the end of the regular season, which concludes on October 19.
Inter Miami’s strong performance, even in Messi’s absence and despite playing with ten men, underscores their readiness for the playoffs.
