Luis Suarez sounds rallying cry after Inter Miami stretch lead at top of MLS standings with Chicago win despite missing Lionel Messi through injury

The Herons took an early lead in the sixth minute when Matias Rojas scored his fourth goal of the season. The rookie’s quick strike set the tone of the match, but Chicago Fire responded with an equalizer in the second half through Rafael Czichos. However, just two minutes later, Jordi Alba restored Miami's lead, ensuring the team's victory and further cementing their position at the top of the standings with 53 points from 25 games.

Following the match, Suarez took to social media to let out a rallying cry as Inter Miami aim to finish the league stage in the number one position before heading into the final series. He posted, "Three more to fight. Let's go!"

Messi was notably absent from the match due to an ankle injury sustained in the 2024 Copa America final. However, an elaborate tribute was laid on for the talismanic No.10 in a glitzy pre-match ceremony to honour the 45 titles that he has won in his career. A video was played out highlighting his most memorable achievements, there were fireworks on display and a special banner was laid on the centre circle with the number '45' worked into a montage.

Inter Miami will now take a break from their MLS commitments and shift focus on their Leagues Cup defence. They will begin their campaign with a match against Puebla next Saturday, July 27.