Inter Miami secured a strong 4-1 win over the Houston Dynamo on Sunday night at Shell Energy Stadium. Even star player Lionel Messi was rested for this game, the team displayed its depth and ability in his absence.

The match belonged to Inter Miami from the start. In the 5th minute, Luis Suárez intercepted a deflected ball and brilliantly assisted Telasco Segovia, who finished accurately. This first goal defined the game.

The cooperation of Suárez and Segovia proved to be fruitful throughout the game. Suárez got a good assist for Tadeo Allende in the 37th minute. Allende raced by defenders and scored a fierce right-footed shot to give Miami a two-zero lead.

Segovia hit again exactly before the break. After Bright picked off a midfield pass, Suárez located Segovia in the area. Calmly finished the Venezuelan midfielder, thereby second goal of the night and Miami going 3-0 ahead at halftime.

Suárez displayed his brilliance in the 79th minute. From Busquets he got a pass, dribbling beyond several defenders and smashing a strong right-footed shot that deflected off the hand of the goalkeeper into the net making a 4-0 score.Nicolas Lodeiro’s first goal for Houston came in the 85th minute. Still, it was just a consolation since Inter Miami maintained control.

Inter Miami got their first victory of the 2025 MLS season, putting them third in the Eastern Conference points and totaling four points. The squad’s depth and tactical mastery under coach Javier Mascherano were made evident by the team’s performance without Messi.

Inter Miami will turn their attention to the Concacaf Champions Cup down the road. The first leg of the Round of 16 is on Thursday, March 6, at Chase Stadium. Inter Miami will host Jamaica’s Cavalier FC.

Fans are excited to see whether the team can carry their pace in international competition. Luis Suárez’s leadership and talent were clear in Messi’s absence. The team’s success hinged on his one goal and three assists. Moreover, Telasco Segovia’s stellar play, which saw two goals, highlighted the potential of the young talent and their value to the team.

The Dynamo’s giving of free tickets to fans was a brilliant off-field gesture in response to Messi not being there. Though the outcome was not what they were hoping for, they valued the goodwill shown toward their supporters.

Inter Miami’s most recent form suggests a good season ahead. The team seeks to expand on this win as they navigate both local and global games. Thanks to important performers and a solid tactical plan.