Inter Miami emerged victorious in a tightly contested MLS match, edging Montreal by a solitary goal.
The decisive moment arrived when Luis Suárez stepped up to take a penalty, calmly dispatching it into the net to put his side ahead.
German Berterame, who had been a key presence in the attacking line, was forced off the pitch early with an injury, leaving a void that the team had to fill.
Lionel Messi, who has been a constant figure in the club's recent campaigns, was deliberately rested, allowing the coaching staff to manage his workload.
The game also marked the MLS debut of Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder whose arrival was highly anticipated after his high‑profile transfer.
Implications of the win
The narrow victory underscores Inter Miami's ability to adapt under pressure, highlighting both the depth of their squad and the effectiveness of their tactical adjustments.
For Montreal, the loss adds to a series of challenges as they look to regroup and address the gaps exposed by Berterame's absence.
The result also provides a timely boost for the MLS, reinforcing the league's growing competitiveness and the allure of high‑profile signings.