Inter Miami pulled off a thrilling 2-1 win over Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, thanks to two coolly taken penalties by Luis Suarez. The victory came despite Lionel Messi’s absence and coach Javier Mascherano’s surprise red card.
The match, held at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on August 20, had no shortage of drama. Suarez opened the scoring in the 23rd minute after Tigres defender Javier Aquino handled the ball inside the box. Tigres fought back, and World Cup winner Ángel Correa levelled the score in the 67th minute, setting up a tense finale.
Just when the contest looked set for extra time, Suarez struck again from the penalty spot in the 89th minute, securing Miami’s place in the semifinals. The game nearly flipped in stoppage time when Iván López’s header rattled both posts before bouncing out, leaving Tigres fans heartbroken.
Off the pitch, Mascherano stole headlines when he was ejected and forced to coach from the front row of the stands. Messi, meanwhile, watched from the suites, sidelined with a hamstring injury. His absence was felt, but Miami proved their depth and resilience. Jordi Alba also added to concerns after limping off with a leg injury in the second half.
This result marks another chapter in the growing rivalry between MLS and Liga MX clubs, showcasing intensity, unpredictability, and high stakes. Miami, fresh from a 3-1 win over LA Galaxy, will now face Orlando City in the semifinals on August 26 or 27. Orlando recently stunned them 4-1, setting up a fiery rematch.
For Messi, who has already scored 40 goals in just 44 MLS matches, the coming weeks are crucial as he pushes for a return. For Miami, the message was clear – even without their superstar, they can fight, adapt, and win on the big stage.
