Lionel Messi wasn't on the pitch, but Inter Miami didn't miss him. In the Argentine star's absence, Luis Suarez scored a goal and provided two assists to seal his team's qualification for the Leagues Cup quarter-finals, after another comeback against Pumas UNAM of Mexico, who were eliminated.

The opening goal from Jorge Ruvalcaba after 30 minutes, following a quiet start to the match, was cancelled out by Rodrigo De Paul near half-time, after a fine cross from Luis Suarez. In the second half, Inter Miami went into overdrive, led by the Uruguayan, and the other goals followed.

Luis Suarez scored from the penalty spot and provided another assist, this time for Tadeo Allende, for the goal that wrapped up the scoreline at 3-1. The Uruguayan is Inter Miami's leading assist provider this season.

With this victory, Inter Miami are the first MLS team to guarantee their qualification for the quarter-finals of the tournament, with eight points. They will have to wait for the results of Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers on Thursday to find out whether they progress to the next stage in first, second or third place.

Pumas UNAM, meanwhile, have been eliminated with five points. Among the Liga MX clubs, only Toluca are mathematically qualified.

J. Ruvalcaba

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