Inter Miami overcame significant obstacles to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC on Sunday afternoon at Chase Stadium. An early second-half goal by midfielder Tadeo Allende proved to be the decisive moment, lifting Miami to its second win of the 2024 MLS season.
Inter Miami (2-0-1, 7 points) picked up three critical points despite playing with 10 men for over 50 minutes. Superstar Lionel Messi remained sidelined for the second consecutive match due to fatigue, while starting goalkeeper Oscar Ustari was sent off in the 38th minute after receiving a red card.
Allende’s goal came in the opening minute of the second half, marking his fourth consecutive match with a goal across all competitions. The crucial strike began when Gonzalo Lujan, who had shifted to center back for the second half, played a long ball forward. Allende creatively back-heeled the pass to Luis Suárez, who immediately returned the ball to Allende inside the 18-yard box. The Argentine midfielder controlled the ball with his chest and fired a shot past Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, giving Miami the lead.
Inter Miami’s defensive unit delivered an impressive performance despite being reduced to 10 men. Defender Yannick Bright anchored the back line, breaking up several Charlotte attacks and ensuring substitute goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo faced minimal pressure.
Ustari’s ejection came after he fouled Charlotte forward Wilfried Zaha on a breakaway in the 38th minute, forcing Miami to turn to Ríos Novo in goal with primary backup Drake Callender sidelined due to an adductor injury. Despite these challenges, Miami’s defense held firm, limiting Charlotte to just one dangerous chance.
In the 79th minute, Charlotte forward Patrick Agyemang set up Iuri Tavares, who fed Idan Toklomati near the goal. Toklomati’s shot appeared destined for the net but struck the far post, preserving Miami’s clean sheet.
Although Messi remained on the bench, Miami fans frequently chanted his name, eager to see the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner return to action. Messi has not played since Miami’s February 25 win over Sporting Kansas City.
Despite being outshot 8-4 and conceding 13 corner kicks to their own two, Inter Miami’s defensive resolve proved pivotal. Miami’s three red cards this season are the most in MLS, marking the first team to receive red cards in three consecutive matches since NYCFC in 2021.
Charlotte FC (1-1-1, 4 points) suffered its first league loss of the season despite controlling possession for much of the match.
Inter Miami’s gritty performance keeps them unbeaten in MLS play, reinforcing their resilience amid adversity.
