Luis Suarez delivered a brace from the penalty spot as Inter Miami defeated Tigres UANL 2-1 on Wednesday, stepping up in Lionel Messi’s absence to secure a semi-final berth in the Leagues Cup.
Messi, who has been managing a “minor” muscle injury since August 2, returned briefly last weekend with a goal against Los Angeles Galaxy but was sidelined again for this clash. Assistant coach Javier Morales explained the decision, saying, “We rely on how Leo feels and it wasn’t the best. We preferred not to take risks, not to go backward in his recovery.”
The encounter offered limited scoring opportunities until the 20th minute, when Javier Aquino’s handball gifted Miami a penalty that Suarez calmly converted. Tensions briefly rose between players, but Suarez took charge to cool tempers. At half-time, coach Javier Mascherano was sent off for protesting against extended stoppage time, forcing him to watch the remainder from the stands.
Tigres equalized in the 67th minute through Angel Correa, who broke through Miami’s defense to beat goalkeeper Oscar Ustari. But in the 87th minute, Aquino was penalized for another handball, confirmed by VAR, giving Suarez a second chance from the spot. The Uruguayan striker converted once again, sealing Miami’s progression.
Reflecting on the match, Suarez said, “The game was really difficult because they played very well. Every day I just try my best to help the team win.”
With the victory, Miami booked a semi-final clash against Orlando City, who advanced after a penalty shootout triumph over Toluca FC. Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese not only saved two penalties but also scored the winner in a dramatic shootout. Orlando had already beaten Miami 4-1 in MLS earlier this month when Messi was absent.
Elsewhere, Los Angeles Galaxy faced Pachuca, while the Seattle Sounders met Puebla in the remaining quarter-final ties. Beyond the trophy, the Leagues Cup offers qualification incentives: both finalists and the third-place side earn spots in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with the tournament champion gaining direct entry into the round of 16.
What you should know
Luis Suarez proved decisive for Inter Miami with two penalties that secured a 2-1 win over Tigres, pushing the team into the Leagues Cup semi-finals despite Lionel Messi’s absence due to injury.
Suarez’s leadership and composure were vital in a match marked by tense moments, including Javier Mascherano’s red card. Miami will now face Florida rivals Orlando City in the semi-finals, setting up a heated showdown.
With Champions Cup qualification spots on the line, Suarez’s performance reinforced his enduring value and highlighted Miami’s ability to thrive even when their talisman, Messi, is sidelined.
