Suarez Steps Up as Messi Misses Out, Fires Inter Miami Past Tigres into Leagues Cup Semis

Luis Suarez scored twice from the penalty spot to lead Inter Miami to a 2-1 win over Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup quarter-final on Wednesday, compensating for the absence of Lionel Messi, who missed the match due to a minor muscle injury.

Messi, who had returned over the weekend to score in a 3-1 win over LA Galaxy after a two-week layoff, was ruled out again as a precaution. “We rely on how Leo feels, and it wasn’t the best,” said Inter assistant coach Javier Morales. “We preferred not to take risks.”

In a tense and tightly contested encounter, it was veteran Uruguayan striker Suarez who proved decisive. The first breakthrough came in the 20th minute when Tigres’ Javier Aquino was penalized for a handball in the box. Suarez coolly slotted the penalty to give Miami the lead.

Tensions ran high as tempers flared between players, prompting Suarez to intervene and diffuse the situation. Head coach Javier Mascherano was ejected at halftime after protesting excessive injury time.

Tigres leveled in the 67th minute through Angel Correa, who weaved between defenders to beat Inter goalkeeper Oscar Ustari. But Miami regained the lead late on after another Aquino handball was confirmed by VAR in the 87th minute. Suarez stepped up again, calmly converting to seal the win.

“It was a tough match because they played really well,” Suarez said post-match. “I just try to help the team win every day.”

Inter Miami now advances to face Florida rivals Orlando City in the semi-final. Orlando defeated Liga MX champions Toluca FC 6-5 on penalties following a goalless draw, with goalkeeper Pedro Gallese saving two spot-kicks and netting the winner himself.

Elsewhere, the remaining quarter-finals saw LA Galaxy host Pachuca, while the Seattle Sounders welcomed Puebla.

Beyond the trophy, the stakes are high: both finalists and the third-place winner will earn spots in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with the Leagues Cup champion earning direct entry to the round of 16.