Inter Miami Shows Strength Without Messi Against Club Puebla

Inter Miami kicked off their Leagues Cup title defense with a resounding win over Club Puebla, and the sense of déjà vu was palpable among fans. However, Lionel Messi's absence brought a new storyline to this season. The 2-0 victory was a relief but also a foreshadowing of challenges ahead.

Last year, Messi's debut was straight out of a Hollywood movie. A stoppage-time free-kick goal against Cruz Azul marked his triumphant entry into Inter Miami. From that moment on, he was a comet streaking across the Leagues Cup sky, finishing as the top scorer and leading the team to the title in a dramatic penalty shootout against Nashville SC. It was the club's first trophy, an indelible milestone. But this season, Messi watched the game from the stands, nursing an ankle injury he sustained in the Copa América final for Argentina. His absence is a setback that could sideline him for much of the Leagues Cup campaign.

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Even without the world's greatest player on the field, Inter Miami showed they don't rely on just one star. The victory over Puebla was earned with the sweat and talent of other protagonists. Matías Rojas opened the scoring with a left-footed strike that sounded like thunder ripping through the sky. Luis Suárez sealed the result, capitalizing on a sweet pass from former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba. In fact, the play that led to Suárez's goal started with a masterful pass from Julian Gressel, showcasing the team's collective strength.

Coach Tata Martino made it clear that Inter Miami's mission is to fight tooth and nail for both the MLS Cup and the Leagues Cup. He emphasized that unlike last year, the team doesn't have to choose between the two, as the tournaments don't overlap. With enviable squad depth, the team is ready to compete on multiple fronts. Currently, they lead the Supporters' Shield race, five points ahead of FC Cincinnati.

Suárez highlighted the importance of imposing their game from the first minutes. According to him, putting the opponent in a tough spot from the start is crucial. Puebla felt that firsthand and couldn't respond.

The match also marked the debut of David Martinez, on loan from River Plate. The Argentine defender showed he's here to contribute, helping keep the defense solid. In goal, CJ dos Santos had a steady performance, filling in for Drake Callender. Martino explained that this was an opportunity to give the young goalkeeper some game time. The coach, with his strategic vision, mentioned that this year's approach is different. Now, as league leaders, there's not the same pressure as before.

The next battle will be against Tigres UNAL, a formidable opponent. The win against Puebla was just the first step, and the road to the title will be arduous.