BTN News: Inter Miami, bolstered by the presence of Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez but missing the star power of Lionel Messi, solidified its leadership in the MLS Eastern Conference with a crucial 2-1 victory at home against the Chicago Fire. This win came at an opportune moment as Cincinnati, Miami’s closest rival, suffered a 3-1 defeat to the New York Red Bulls, allowing Miami to extend their lead. The match saw key contributions from Paraguayan midfielder MatÃas Rojas and Spanish defender Jordi Alba, who capitalized on a significant defensive error by Chicago. With five points now separating Miami from Cincinnati, the team’s ambitions for the season are looking increasingly within reach.
Luis Suárez, under the guidance of Argentine coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino, played a pivotal role in the match. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi, fresh off his Copa América victory with Argentina, was sidelined due to physical issues sustained in the final against Colombia. Messi’s participation in the upcoming MLS All-Star game on July 24 in Columbus, Ohio, remains uncertain as he continues to recover.
The absence of Messi did not hinder Inter Miami, who took full advantage of Cincinnati’s misfortune. Cincinnati, the 2023 Supporters’ Shield winners, were defeated by the Red Bulls, thanks to a double from Lewis Morgan and a goal by Kyle Duncan.
In other league action, Atlanta United returned to winning ways despite the recent departure of Argentine star Thiago Almada to Botafogo. Under Mexican coach Gonzalo Pineda, Atlanta secured a 2-1 victory at home against defending champions Columbus Crew. Norwegian defender Stian Gregersen was instrumental, scoring twice in the second half after Uruguayan forward Diego Rossi had given the Crew an early lead.
Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference, Toronto FC edged out Montreal 1-0 in the Canadian derby, with Canadian international Richie Laryea scoring the decisive goal. Orlando City’s winning streak ended at four matches after a 1-1 draw with New York City FC, despite an early goal from Argentine forward Ramiro Enrique. The equalizer came from German midfielder Hannes Wolf.
Philadelphia Union’s Hungarian forward Daniel Gazdag stole the spotlight with a hat-trick in their 3-0 home victory against Nashville, further solidifying their position in the standings.
In the Western Conference, Minnesota United ended a nine-match winless streak with a 2-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. This crucial win saw Minnesota climb into the playoff spots, a position they had not held since June 1.
Sporting Kansas City and Saint Louis FC battled to a 1-1 draw, a result that did little to improve the fortunes of either team, both of whom are currently outside the playoff positions.
Finally, the match between Real Salt Lake and the Colorado Rapids, featuring Colombian forward Christian ‘Chicho’ Arango, was interrupted at halftime due to weather conditions. At the time of the suspension, Colorado Rapids were leading 2-1.
Inter Miami’s ability to secure a win without their talisman Messi, and the slip-ups of their closest competitors, illustrate the unpredictable and exciting nature of this MLS season. As the league progresses, fans will be keenly watching the recovery of Messi and the ongoing performance of key players like Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba.
