Inter Miami secured a 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Sunday, despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
Lionel Messi remained on the bench as coach Javier Mascherano opted to rest the Argentine star.
Miami faced an early setback when goalkeeper Oscar Ustari received a red card in the 38th minute after fouling Wilfried Zaha.
Charlotte FC dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances.
The deadlock was broken immediately after halftime when Tadeo Allende’s clever backheel set up Luis Suarez, who chipped the ball back for Allende to finish with precision. It marked the Argentine’s fourth goal of the season.
Miami defended resolutely, nullifying Charlotte’s attacking threats despite conceding 13 corners.
The visitors’ best opportunity came in the 65th minute when Patrick Agyemang’s header narrowly missed the post.
Mascherano later explained that Messi had been considered for game time but was ultimately left out as a precaution.
While there has been no confirmation of an injury, the team’s medical staff reportedly remain cautious about his workload.
With the win, Inter Miami extended their unbeaten run, proving their resilience even without their star player on the pitch.