Fort Lauderdale, Aug 7 (V7N) – Inter Miami continued their impressive winning streak in the Leagues Cup, securing a 3-1 victory over Pumas in their final group stage match at Chase Stadium, despite Lionel Messi missing the game due to a hamstring injury.

The Argentine superstar, who was injured in the 2-2 draw against Necaxa last Saturday, watched from the stands as his teammates, led by his close friend Luis Suarez and midfield 'bodyguard' Rodrigo de Paul, delivered a commanding performance.

Luis Suarez was the star of the match, scoring a memorable penalty with a cheeky ‘Panenka’ chip and providing two crucial assists. When Miami found themselves trailing 0-1 just before halftime, Rodrigo de Paul equalized with a well-placed strike following a precise pass from Suarez. This marked De Paul’s first goal of the year.

Argentine winger Tadeo Allende, also assisted by Suarez, added another goal for Miami, while Jorge Ruvalcaba scored Pumas’ lone goal.

With this win, Inter Miami secured their place in the quarterfinals as the first Major League Soccer (MLS) team to qualify, accumulating 8 points from 2 wins and 1 draw, advancing on a tiebreaker. The top four teams from MLS and Liga MX will face off in the next round.

Messi’s absence did not deter the team’s momentum, and Miami fans now look forward to their quarterfinal clash with Pumas.

END/RH/AJ