Inter Miami Shows They’ve Got Game, Messi or Not

Look, everyone knows that Messi is the heart and soul of the current Inter Miami project. The man’s got a footprint on practically every goal the team breathes into existence, and critics are quick to scream “Messidependencia” whenever things get shaky.

But here’s the deal. Without Messi (he’s nursing a pesky hamstring injury, by the way), Miami didn’t crumble. They adapted. Javier Mascherano orchestrated some tactical magic, slotting players like Sergio Busquets into new roles mid-match. The result? A smooth, collective team performance that screamed, “We’re more than one man.”

And speaking of players stepping up…

Suárez Finally Breaks His Goal Drought (& Then Some)

Luis Suárez, or as fans lovingly call him, “El Pistolero,” decided it was time to remind everyone of his lethal talent. After a less-than-stellar nine-game scoring slump, the guy did everything but don a cape during this match. Not only did he nail a penalty with the kind of precision that might make Pumas’ goalkeeper lose sleep, but he also dished out two assists that were chef’s-kiss worthy.

Mascherano admitted post-match, “I’m happy for Luis because it’s tough for a striker when they’re not scoring.” Tough? Maybe. But for Suarez, it’s old-school redemption.

Rodrigo De Paul, Tactical Genius in Rosanegra

Another standout performance came from Argentina’s Rodrigo De Paul. His seamless transition to Miami’s midfield looked so natural it was almost unfair. De Paul hit the back of the net right before halftime to equalize, proving his transfer from Atlético Madrid wasn’t just hype.

Mascherano couldn’t hold back his praise, emphasizing De Paul’s rapid adaptation despite zero pre-season time. “He’s out there spreading his energy to the team,” said the coach. Basically, De Paul isn’t just a midfielder for Miami; he’s the glue holding the squad together when Messi isn’t in the mix.

A Team Growing Beyond the Stars

It’s easy to paint Inter Miami as Messi’s dream team (and fair, because duh). But this victory against Pumas proves there’s a depth to this squad that many may have underestimated. Every player seemed to have grasped the assignment, from Jordi Alba managing the defensive line to Tadeo Allende putting the cherry on top with the third goal.

This kind of performance sends a message to the rest of the league and fans alike. Yes, Messi is there to dazzle, but his absence doesn’t mean Miami’s game falls apart. It means the rest of the squad gets to flex their skills. And if this showing was anything to go by, there’s plenty of flex left in this roster.

What’s Next for Inter Miami?

Up next, Inter Miami faces their fiery in-state rivals, Orlando City, on Sunday. It’s the kind of derby that feels more like a backyard brawl than just another match. And guess what? They’ll need to keep proving themselves as they juggle the League’s Cup and Messi’s road to recovery.

Mascherano gets it. “Without Leo, we might not have that game-breaking pass that opens up space,” he admitted. But with a performance like this? Miami fans can breathe easy knowing their team isn’t a one-man show.

Why This Win Matters

Advancing in the Leagues Cup is obviously the tangible reward here, but this match was about much more than points. It was about proving that even when Messi is benched, this is a team that knows how to rise to the occasion. Stronger together? Check. Suárez, De Paul, Busquets, and the rest of the Herons didn’t just adapt; they flourished.

If you’re doubting Inter Miami’s ability to handle pressure without their GOAT, well, this match says otherwise. Go ahead, add “resilience” to their gameplay tagline.

Closing Thoughts

Inter Miami’s Pumas win should silence the doubters hiding behind their “Messidependencia” critiques. Suarez rediscovered his swagger, De Paul added finesse, and Mascherano proved he’s more than just Messi’s buddy in a suit. This team is evolving, growing, and proving week after week that they’re making waves—not coasting on star power.

Now excuse us while we wait for the Orlando City match. Someone pass the popcorn.