In a dramatic Major League Soccer (MLS) clash, Inter Miami secured a crucial 1-0 win against D.C. United, thanks to a last-minute goal by Ecuadorian striker Leonardo Campana. Despite the return of Lionel Messi to the starting lineup, Miami struggled to break down a well-organized D.C. defense throughout the match.
The game began with a 25-minute delay due to lightning, followed by a torrential downpour just 15 minutes after kickoff. Miami dominated possession in the first half, while D.C. United focused on maintaining their shape and countering. However, neither team managed to find the net before halftime.
Messi, who had missed the midweek game due to a knee injury, was unable to make a significant impact. His free-kick efforts were blocked by the D.C. wall, and he appeared below his usual standards. D.C. United grew into the game, with Matti Peltola coming close to scoring in the 69th minute.
As the clock ticked down, it seemed the match would end in a frustrating draw for both sides. But in the dying moments, Leonardo Campana, brought on as a substitute, changed the course of the game. Campana made a brilliant diagonal run across D.C.’s backline, receiving a lofted pass from Sergio Busquets. With his first touch, he unleashed an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Alex Bono, securing victory for Inter Miami.
This win extended Miami’s unbeaten run to nine games, matching their total number of victories from the previous season after just 15 matches. Despite Messi’s presence, it was Campana’s heroics that stole the spotlight and kept Inter Miami at the top of the league standings.
Gerardo Martino’s team can celebrate this hard-fought victory, while D.C. United will rue their missed chances. Campana’s late stunner exemplified the unpredictable nature of football, leaving fans and players alike in awe.
In summary, Inter Miami’s super sub, Leonardo Campana, delivered a moment of magic, securing three crucial points for Messi’s team in a thrilling encounter against D.C. United. The rain-soaked pitch witnessed drama, determination, and the sheer joy of victory as Campana’s strike echoed through the stadium, etching his name into Miami’s MLS history.
