In a highly anticipated friendly clash between Inter Miami and Al Hilal at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, football fans were treated to a thrilling display of skill and determination.
Despite an impressive performance from Inter Miami’s star duo Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, it was Al Hilal who emerged victorious with a 4-3 win.
All 3⃣ of Al-Hilal's first-half goals against Inter Miami at Kingdom Arena
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) January 29, 2024pic.twitter.com/IVClD0YThb
The game kicked off with Al Hilal immediately asserting their dominance.
Former Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic showed his goal-scoring skills, finding the net in the 10th minute with a well-executed finish.
Just three minutes later, Abdullah Al-Hamdan capitalized on a defensive error, doubling Al Hilal’s advantage.
Not willing to be outdone, Inter Miami fought back with determination.
In the 34th minute, a lofted pass from Jordi Alba found Julian Gressel, who set up Suarez to slot the ball into an empty net.
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) January 29, 2024
LUIS SUAREZ
His first goal for @InterMiamiCF! pic.twitter.com/oEhVqKS7UB
Initially ruled offside, the decision was overturned after a VAR check, reigniting Miami’s hopes.
The second half witnessed a spirited comeback from Inter Miami, led by their talisman Messi.
In the 54th minute, Messi converted a penalty after a contentious foul on David Ruiz, bringing Miami within striking distance.
MESSIIIIII
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) January 29, 2024
Clinical from the spot. Leo gets his first goal of 2024. pic.twitter.com/ifVwWl0d6W
Moments later, Messi showed his brilliance once again, setting up Ruiz for a powerful strike that leveled the score at 3-3.
TAKE A BOW, DAVID RUIZ
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) January 29, 2024
What a beauty to level it 3-3 for @InterMiamiCF! pic.twitter.com/6qrv9dMOU6
With the game hanging in the balance, Brazilian forward Malcom delivered a decisive blow for Al Hilal.
In the 88th minute, he headed home the winning goal, securing a 4-3 victory for his team.
While the result may not have favored Inter Miami, their journey continues as they prepare to face Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in their next Saudi friendly.
This highly anticipated match promises more thrilling moments and shows determination the of the Miami squad.
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