Luis Suarez scored a penalty in each half to give Inter Miami a 2-1 win over Tigres UANL on Wednesday, sending the MLS side into the Leagues Cup semi-finals. The veteran striker stepped up in Lionel Messi’s absence, delivering the goals that kept Miami’s title defense alive.
Messi Ruled Out with Injury
Messi, who has been nursing a minor muscle injury since August 2, made a brief return in Saturday’s 3-1 win over LA Galaxy but was unavailable against Tigres. Assistant coach Javier Morales said the decision was made to avoid setbacks in his recovery: “We preferred not to take risks, not to go backward in his recovery.”
Suarez Delivers for Miami
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute when Javier Aquino handled the ball inside the area. Suarez calmly converted the penalty. Tempers flared later as Suarez intervened to cool tensions between teammates and opponents.
Inter coach Javier Mascherano was sent off at halftime for dissent, leaving Miami without their manager on the sidelines.
In the 67th minute, Tigres equalized through Angel Correa, who beat two defenders before finishing past goalkeeper Oscar Ustari.
But another Aquino handball in the 87th minute, confirmed by VAR, gave Miami a second penalty. Suarez converted again, going the opposite way of goalkeeper Nahuel Guzman.
Semi-Final Clash with Orlando City
Miami will now face Florida rivals Orlando City, who advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Toluca. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was the hero, saving twice and scoring the decisive spot-kick.
The winner of the Leagues Cup not only lifts the trophy but also secures direct entry to the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16, while the runner-up and third-place winner also qualify.
Suarez summed up the night: “The game was really difficult because they played very well. Every day I just try my best to help the team win.”
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