Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM: Luis Suárez Shines as Herons Secure Leagues Cup Knockout Spot
Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM saw Luis Suárez lead the Herons to a 3-1 victory, sealing their place in the 2025 Leagues Cup quarterfinals.
Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM
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Inter Miami 3–1 Pumas UNAM: Suárez Stars in Leagues Cup Victory
In what was arguably their finest performance of the tournament so far, Inter Miami defeated Pumas UNAM 3–1, securing a vital win that propelled them into the knockout stage of the 2025 Leagues Cup.
Despite missing captain Lionel Messi due to a minor muscle issue, the Herons proved their strength in depth with a clinical display at Chase Stadium. Leading the charge was none other than Luis Suárez, who put on a vintage performance — scoring, assisting, and orchestrating the attack like the seasoned pro he is.
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⚽ First Half: Pumas Strike First, But Miami Responds::Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM
The game began with both sides showing early intent. Inter Miami, under Javier Mascherano, controlled possession but lacked the sharp edge to finish their chances in the final third. Meanwhile, Pumas UNAM stayed patient and struck when the opportunity came.
In the 34th minute, Pumas took a surprise lead. Pedro Vite played a sublime aerial pass over the Miami defense, finding Jorge Ruvalcaba, who made no mistake with his finish. Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez had different ideas, but the Mexican team appeared ready to take the lead at halftime.
Just minutes before the break, Suárez made a clever run down the left flank and whipped in a perfectly timed ball into the box. De Paul gently put his first goal for the team in after masterfully controlling it with his chest, bringing the score to one.
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Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM
🧠 Second Half: Suárez Turns the Game : Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM
The second half saw Inter Miami raise the intensity. Suárez thought he had scored the go-ahead goal in the 47th minute, only to be ruled offside. But in the 58th minute, justice arrived. A handball from José Caicedo gifted Miami a penalty — and Suárez stepped up with calm authority.
With the crowd holding its breath, he slotted the ball past the keeper, ending his nine-match goal drought and giving Inter Miami a 2–1 lead.
But the Uruguayan wasn’t done yet.
Suárez took over as provider once more in the 71st minute, this time providing Tadeo Allende with a flawless assist.Allende converted with confidence to make it 3–1, effectively putting the game out of Pumas UNAM’s reach.
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🎯 Tactical Brilliance Without Messi
Lionel Messi’s magic was definitely missed by the fans, but Inter Miami showed they could step in. Suárez was free to lead the line and the midfield thanks to Mascherano’s setup, which was led by De Paul, offered support in both attack and defense.
The defensive unit, often criticized in earlier games, remained compact and disciplined in the second half, denying Pumas any real sniff of a comeback.
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🏆 What’s Next for Inter Miami?
With this win, Inter Miami books their place in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, scheduled for August 19–20, 2025. Momentum is now on their side, and if Suárez continues in this form — and Messi returns in time — the Herons could be serious contenders for the trophy.
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🔥 Final Thoughts
The Inter Miami vs Pumas UNAM clash was more than just a group stage game. It was a statement — proof that this Miami side can rise to the occasion, even without their talisman. Luis Suárez’s Man-of-the-Match display reminded fans of his elite class and silenced any critics questioning his recent form.
For now, Miami can breathe easy, but the real battle begins in the knockout rounds. With stars clicking and confidence high, the Herons may just fly further than expected in the 2025 Leagues Cup.