Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez each contributed 1 assist to help Inter Miami win 2-0 against Real Salt Lake in the opening match of the American professional soccer tournament MLS 2024.

Messi made a bold mark in both of Inter Miami’s goals. (Photo: Reuters)

Inter Miami launched its strongest squad when entering the opening match of the 2024 American professional soccer tournament MLS against Real Salt Lake. Lionel Messi plays alongside Luis Suarez, supported behind by Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

With home field advantage, Inter Miami dominated the game and opened the score in the 39th minute. Lionel Messi assisted Robert Taylor to escape and shoot into Real Salt Lake’s net. The away team’s goalkeeper touched the ball but failed to block it well and conceded a goal.

Lionel Messi continued to be the inspiration for Inter Miami’s attack and seemed to have won a penalty when the Real Salt Lake player used his hand to block the shot in the penalty area in the 60th minute. However, VAR stepped in and determined Sergio Busquets was offside earlier so the referee did not blow a penalty.

Inter Miami wins in MLS 2024. (Photo: Reuters)

After escaping the penalty, the away team regained their spirit and continuously created 3 dangerous opportunities but could not equalize. The fate of the match was only decided when Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez together created an opportunity for Diego Gomez to set the score 2-0.

Lionel Messi broke through from the middle of the field to the edge of the away team’s penalty area and passed the ball. Luis Suarez provided the assist for Diego Gomez to score. Inter Miami won the final 2-0 against Real Salt Lake in their opening match at MSL 2024.

This victory helps Inter Miami regain face after a series of friendly matches before the poor season (lost 4, drew 2, won 1)