Luis Suarez netted his inaugural goal of the Major League Soccer season, while Lionel Messi was unable to score as reigning champions Inter Miami clinched a late 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake on Wednesday.
Supporters who forked out eye-watering ticket prices averaging over $450 to witness Messi’s debut game in Salt Lake City were treated to a full 90 minutes from the Argentine superstar.
Although Messi created a number of opportunities, he was thwarted by Brazilian goalkeeper Rafael Cabral and had to rely on compatriot Rodrigo De Paul to unlock the scoring in the 82nd minute.
De Paul’s powerful shot following a corner evaded Cabral’s fingertips and nestled into the top-right corner of the net.
Suarez, who came on as a substitute in the second half, sealed the win just a minute later, connecting with German Berterame’s header and finishing with a strike from his left foot.
“I believe we performed exceptionally in the first half,” De Paul remarked to Apple TV following Miami’s consecutive triumph under interim coach Guillermo Hoyos.
“It was a fantastic goal, and as long as it benefits the team, that’s what matters,” he added, celebrating the end of Salt Lake’s six-match unbeaten streak.
The 39-year-old Uruguayan, who has previously played for Liverpool and Barcelona, marked his 44th goal in 93 appearances for Miami, scoring in his first match of the 2026 season.
According to TickPick, Wednesday’s clash was deemed the “most expensive MLS game of the season,” with the average ticket price skyrocketing to $468.
Messi’s team remains unbeaten since suffering a 3-0 loss in their opening match against Son Heung-min’s Los Angeles FC.
They currently sit second in the Eastern Conference with 18 points, just one point behind Nashville, who also hold a game in hand.
Compiled by SportArena.au
Fanpage: SportArena.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
