Tigres UANL fall short in the Leagues Cup quarter-final, with Suarez's decisive penalties clinching a 2-1 victory for Inter Miami, despite Messi's absence.
In the exciting quarter-final match of the Leagues Cup, Inter Miami faced their Florida rivals Orlando City. The game, played without the presence of Lionel Messi due to injury, saw a close contest between the two teams.
The first half was marked by a series of events. Oscar Ustari, Inter Miami's goalkeeper, made a strong near-post save to prevent a goal for Tigres. Javier Mascherno, Inter Miami's coach, was sent off just before halftime, adding to the drama.
The second half saw more action, with the match heading towards a draw. The second penalty was awarded following a VAR review, despite the ball appearing to deflect up onto Aquino's arm. Luis Suarez stepped up to convert the penalty, giving Inter Miami a 1-0 lead.
However, the lead was short-lived as Orlando City equalised through an own goal by Alonso Aceves. The game ended 1-1, sending the match into extra time and ultimately a penalty shoot-out.
The shoot-out was a thrilling affair, with Pedro Gallese saving two penalties and scoring one for Orlando City. Luis Suarez scored two penalties for Inter Miami, but it wasn't enough, as the shoot-out ended 6-5 in favour of Orlando City.
Meanwhile, in another quarter-final match, LA Galaxy advanced to the semi-finals with a 2-1 victory over Pachuca. An own goal by Alonso Aceves and a strike by Marco Reus put LA Galaxy 2-0 up. Alemao scored a late consolation goal for Pachuca, but it wasn't enough to prevent LA Galaxy's victory.
Seattle Sounders also advanced to the semi-finals after a 0-0 draw with Puebla, followed by a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory. Andrew Thomas made two saves during the penalty shoot-out for Seattle Sounders.
Orlando City, who defeated Toluca via a penalty shoot-out in their previous match, will now face Inter Miami in the semi-finals of the Leagues Cup next week. The match will no doubt be a highly anticipated Florida derby.
In the absence of Lionel Messi, Inter Miami had more shots, shots on target, and expected goals than Tigres in the Leagues Cup quarter-final. Despite this, they were unable to convert their chances into goals, highlighting the fine margin between victory and defeat in football. Miami also saw Jordi Alba depart with a lower-leg injury during the match, adding to Inter Miami's woes.
The goalkeeper for Inter Miami during the Leagues Cup match against Tigres UANL was Drake Callender, who put in a commendable performance despite the eventual outcome.
As the Leagues Cup moves into the semi-finals, fans are eagerly awaiting the next round of matches, with the promise of exciting football and close contests.
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