Inter Miami Dominates MLS Standings with 2-1 Triumph Over Chicago Fire Despite Messi Absence
Inter Miami defeated the Chicago Fire 2-1 on Saturday in an exciting MLS matchup to increase their lead atop the Eastern Conference standings.
Despite the absence of superstar Lionel Messi due to injury, the victory was gained at home.
Despite Lionel Messi’s injury-plagued absence, Inter Miami defeated Chicago Fire 2-1 at home on Saturday thanks to a goal from Jordi Alba in the 75th minute, increasing their lead atop the MLS standings. With their 16th victory in 25 games, Inter moved up to 53 points, five ahead of FC Cincinnati, who dropped their match against the New York Red Bulls 3-1.
Miami’s first goal came from Paraguayan midfielder Matias Rojas in the sixth minute. Before former Spain star Alba scored the game-winning goal two minutes later, the Fire’s Rafael Czichos, a German defender born in Saudi Arabia, tied the score in the 73rd minute.
In New York, the Red Bulls led 3-0 after 59 minutes after two goals from Scottish midfielder Lewis Morgan startled Cincinnati. Morgan’s goal came either side of defender Kyle Duncan’s.
In the 67th minute, Corey Baird scored the consolation goal for Cincinnati. Daniel Gazdag of Philadelphia scored three goals to give the Union a 3-0 victory over visiting Nashville.
In the tenth, forty-ninth, and eightieth minutes, Gazdag’s goals kept Philadelphia one point behind Atlanta for the last East playoff place.
In the 60th and 77th minutes, Norwegian defender Stian Gregersen gave Atlanta United a 2-1 victory at home after the team had fallen behind.
Toronto defeated Montreal 1-0 in the 38th minute thanks to a goal by Canadian midfielder Richie Laryea.
