Miami: Jordi Alba’s 75th-minute goal secured a 2-1 home win for Inter Miami against Chicago Fire on Saturday, further solidifying their position at the top of the MLS standings.
Despite Lionel Messi’s absence due to injury, Inter’s victory marked their 16th win in 25 games, bringing them to 53 points and maintaining a five-point lead over second-placed FC Cincinnati, who suffered a 3-1 defeat against New York Red Bulls.
Matias Rojas opened the scoring for Miami in the sixth minute, while Rafael Czichos equalized for Chicago Fire in the 73rd minute.
However, former Spanish international Alba sealed the victory for Inter with a goal just two minutes later. In another match, Cincinnati faced a 3-0 loss to New York Red Bulls, with Lewis Morgan scoring twice and Kyle Duncan adding another goal.
Corey Baird managed to score a consolation goal for Cincinnati in the 67th minute. Meanwhile, Philadelphia Union secured a 3-0 victory over Nashville, courtesy of a hat-trick by Daniel Gazdag in the 10th, 39th, and 89th minutes.
Atlanta United also clinched a 2-1 win against Columbus, with Stian Gregersen scoring twice in the 60th and 77th minutes.
Lastly, Richie Laryea’s 38th-minute goal gave Toronto a 1-0 win over Montreal.
