Inter Miami took on D.C. United at Audi Field without their star player, Lionel Messi, who was resting a strained hamstring back in South Florida. Despite Messi's absence, the atmosphere outside the stadium was electrifying, with street vendors selling Messi shirts, scarves, and hats. Fans wearing pink Messi No. 10 jerseys and Argentina shirts cheered loudly as Miami secured a 3-1 victory.
Miami's first goal came from Leo Campana in the 24th minute, followed by two goals from Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, who is known as "El Pistolero" for his goal-scoring prowess. Suarez, who has six goals and five assists in his first seven games for Miami, came off the bench in the 62nd minute and changed the game's dynamic.
Miami midfielder Julian Gressel praised Suarez's impact, stating, “You know the quality he has, so he obviously brings a little different dimension... You can always feel a little burst of energy when a player of his quality comes on.” Coach Tata Martino echoed this sentiment, comparing Suarez to Messi, Busquets, and Jordi Alba, highlighting Suarez's goal-scoring ability as a key asset for the team.
D.C. United scored first with Jared Stroud's goal in the 14th minute, but Campana equalized for Miami just 10 minutes later. Despite missing Messi and other key players like Alba, Suarez, and Freire due to injury, Miami's lineup showcased strong performances from Taylor, Campana, and Gressel.
Looking ahead, Martino stated that Messi's availability will be determined day by day, with the aim of having him back for the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals against Monterrey on April 3. Inter Miami currently sits atop the Eastern Conference with three wins, a tie, and a loss, demonstrating their strong start to the season.
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