FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sept. 9 (UPI) — Inter Miami showcased their ability to win in MLS without Lionel Messi, defeating Sporting Kansas City 3-2 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Leonardo Campana scored twice in the victory at DRV PNK Stadium, maintaining the Herons’ unbeaten record (11-0-1) since acquiring Messi, who was absent due to international playing duties with Argentina.
Facunda Farias also contributed a goal, with Sergio Busquets and DeAndre Yedlin providing the assists for the Herons.
Despite Messi’s absence, Inter Miami’s starting lineup remained strong with the inclusion of fellow international acquisitions Jordi Alba and Busquets as defensive and midfield anchors.
In addition to Campana, Farias, Nicolas Stefanelli, and Robbie Robinson formed a new-look Herons attack, with Messi, Josef Martinez, and Robert Taylor on international break.
Sporting Kansas City took an early lead with a goal from Daniel Salloi in the 9th minute.
The Herons responded by equalizing in the 25th minute through a penalty kick conversion by Campana.
Just before halftime, Campana scored again, giving Inter Miami a 2-1 lead. Yedlin’s excellent play set up the goal with a crossed ball finding Campana for a header into the net.
In the 60th minute, Farias extended Inter Miami’s lead to two goals with a well-timed shot into the near-post netting.
Sporting Kansas City managed to close the gap in the 78th minute, with Alan Pulido scoring a goal. However, the Wizards couldn’t find an equalizer despite their continued efforts.
Inter Miami’s victory keeps them in 14th place in the Eastern Conference with eight regular-season games remaining. They will face Atlanta United on September 16th in another MLS game, followed by a home match against Toronto FC on September 20th at DRV PNK Stadium.
Furthermore, Inter Miami will compete against the Houston Dynamo in the U.S. Open Cup final on September 27th in Fort Lauderdale.
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