Miami Strikes Back
Fort Lauderdale
Inter Miami CF bounced back in style with a 3-1 home win over Seattle Sounders FC at Chase Stadium. Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba starred, each scoring and assisting, while academy graduate Ian Fray netted his first goal of the season.
The match began brightly for Miami as Jordi Alba opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Messi orchestrated the move, finding Alba, who finished neatly with his left foot. The assist was Messi’s 11th this campaign, while Alba registered his third league goal.
Messi almost extended the lead twice, hitting the post in the 28th minute and forcing saves with clever playmaking. Eventually, in the 41st minute, Alba repaid the favor, providing a precise cross for Messi, who slid in his 20th goal in just 21 appearances. Alba’s assist was his ninth of the season, underlining his growing influence.
Inter Miami kept pressure high into the second half. In the 52nd minute, Fray powered home a header from Rodrigo De Paul’s corner, making it 3-0. The goal was special for the academy product, while De Paul notched his fourth assist.
Seattle fought back as Obed Vargas reduced the deficit in the 69th minute. However, Miami’s control—six shots on target to Seattle’s two, with 53% possession—ensured there was no comeback.
Late in the game, youngster Silvetti debuted for Inter Miami after replacing Allende in the 81st minute. The 3-1 result stayed until the final whistle, securing three points and restoring confidence for Miami’s push in the league.
