Inter Miami secured a spot in the 2024 Major League Soccer playoffs after defeating FC Cincinnati 2-0 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Luis Suárez was the star of the match, scoring both goals for the South Florida side. Despite a red card to Tomás “Toto” Avilés late in the first half, Inter Miami managed to hold on to the lead and secure the crucial victory against second-place Cincinnati.
Inter Miami played the match without the presence of Lionel Messi, who was watching from the stands alongside Tom Brady. Messi, who has only featured in 12 out of 26 MLS games this season, is still recovering from an ankle ligament injury sustained during the Copa América final on July 14. However, coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino assured fans that Messi would make a return before the end of the regular season.
This victory marks Inter Miami’s return to the postseason for the first time since 2022. In the previous season, they failed to qualify for the playoffs, finishing in 14th place in the Eastern Conference with just 34 points in 34 games. The team’s resurgence this season has been impressive, currently leading the Eastern Conference with 56 points in 26 games.
The top seven teams from each conference will qualify automatically for the round one best-of-three playoff series, which is set to begin on Oct. 26. Inter Miami will have the advantage of hosting at least one playoff match at Chase Stadium. Following the first round, there will be a break to accommodate the November FIFA international window before resuming play on Nov. 23 for the conference semifinals. The MLS Cup will be held on Dec. 7 at the home of the higher-ranked participant.
Inter Miami not only secured a playoff spot but also extended their lead in the Eastern Conference, with the possibility of setting a new team points record. With eight regular-season matches left to play, the team is also leading the race for the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. The fans can expect an exciting end to the season as Inter Miami aims for more success in the playoffs.
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