Inter Miami Strikes Late to Sink LA Galaxy 3–1 in Florida Clash

By Alonso Contreras

Inter Miami pulled off a statement victory on Sunday night, defeating LA Galaxy 3–1 in front of a packed stadium, thanks to a late surge inspired by Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.

The first half saw Miami dictate the rhythm with Sergio Busquets pulling strings from midfield. The breakthrough came in the 43rd minute when Jordi Alba drifted into the box and smashed home a left-footed strike after a clever assist from Busquets, giving Miami a deserved 1–0 lead heading into halftime.

Galaxy, however, refused to fold. Just before the hour mark, Joseph Paintsil brought the visitors level with a clinical finish from the left side of the area after being set up by Isaiah Parente. His strike, low into the corner, silenced the Miami crowd and set up a thrilling final 30 minutes.

From that point on, the Messi–Suárez connection took over. In the 84th minute, Messi produced a moment of pure magic, cutting inside and unleashing a left-footed rocket from distance that flew into the bottom corner. Rodrigo De Paul provided the assist, highlighting his growing influence since arriving in MLS.

Just five minutes later, Messi turned provider. A sweeping move saw De Paul feed Messi, who slipped a perfectly weighted ball into Suárez’s path. The Uruguayan striker made no mistake, firing from close range to seal the 3–1 victory and send the home fans into ecstasy.

Galaxy had their chances, with Lucas Sanabria testing goalkeeper Óscar Ustari late in stoppage time, but Miami’s backline, anchored by Rodrigo De Paul and Jordi Alba, held firm. Novak Micovic, despite conceding three goals, was a standout for LA with several crucial saves that kept the scoreline respectable.

In the end, Miami’s quality in the final third proved decisive. With Messi orchestrating, Suárez finishing, and Alba rolling back the years, Tata Martino’s men once again showed why they are among the league’s most feared attacks.

Final Score: Inter Miami 3 – 1 LA Galaxy

• Goals: Jordi Alba (43’), Lionel Messi (84’), Luis Suárez (89’), Joseph Paintsil (59’)

• Key Assists: Busquets, De Paul (x2), Messi