Inter Miami Pulls Off an Upset – Even Without Messi!
Okay, so picture this: March 9th, 2025. Inter Miami versus Charlotte FC. It was going to be a big game, but nobody really saw *this* coming. Inter Miami managed a nail-biting 1-0 win, and honestly, who saw that coming? Especially considering their goalie got a red card in the first half, and Lionel Messi was benched.
A Red Card? No Problem (Mostly).
Things got crazy in the 38th minute. Inter Miami's goalkeeper, Oscar Ustari, got a red card for a foul on Charlotte's Wilfried Zaha. That’s a huge blow – playing a man down for more than half the game is brutal. But then Rocco RĂos Novo, making his debut, stepped in. Talk about pressure! The Inter Miami defense – a huge shout-out to Noah Allen and Tomás AvilĂ©s – played their hearts out. They absolutely shut down Charlotte’s attacks, even though Charlotte controlled the ball a lot. It was impressive.
A Goal That Made All The Difference
Then, bam! Seconds into the second half, Luis Suárez and Tadeo Allende pull off a stunning one-two. Allende slots it home – 1-0 Inter Miami! That was Allende's fourth goal this season. Suárez’s assist was his third in the MLS. Even with a smaller squad, Inter Miami’s attack is still something to watch out for.
Charlotte's Frustration Mounts
Charlotte had a huge advantage – an extra player – and controlled most of the possession. They had their chances too, Zaha and Abada caused problems out wide, and Westwood ran the midfield. But Inter Miami’s defense was just too solid, and organized. Patrick Agyemang had a good header that just missed – that was probably their best chance. They just couldn't crack the code.
Messi’s Rest Day & Mascherano’s Explanation
Messi’s absence was a big topic, of course. Fans were chanting his name the whole game. Coach Mascherano explained they initially planned to play Messi for a bit, but the red card changed everything. He didn’t want to risk overworking Messi’s muscles, and the medical team agreed. It was a tough decision, but it clearly worked out in the end.
The Aftermath & What's Next
This win boosts Inter Miami to second place in the Eastern Conference. Now, they're facing the second leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup tie against Cavalier SC. Will Messi play? We'll have to wait and see. But even without their star player, they showed just how tough they can be. As for Charlotte, well, it was their first loss of the season. They'll be looking for a strong comeback next time. This game was definitely a rollercoaster ride.
