Inter Miami secure sixth straight win as Casemiro debuts amid MLS probe
Luis Suarez scores decisive penalty while Lionel Messi rests following Argentina’s World Cup campaign
Inter Miami have extended their winning streak to six consecutive Major League Soccer matches, defeating Montreal CF 1-0 on Saturday. The result was achieved despite the club facing an ongoing investigation by the league into tampering allegations surrounding the transfer of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro.
Casemiro, a former Manchester United player, made his debut for the club by playing the full 90 minutes. His arrival has been the subject of scrutiny from MLS, which confirmed last week that it is investigating a tampering allegation against the club. The league stated it would withhold details of a settlement between Inter Miami and the LA Galaxy regarding Casemiro’s discovery rights until the inquiry concludes. Under MLS regulations, clubs are required to negotiate discovery rights with any team that previously listed a player before signing them outside the draft or free agency, a status previously held by the Galaxy.
The match victory was secured in the 81st minute through a penalty kick converted by Luis Suarez. The spot kick was awarded following a collision in the box between Inter Miami’s German Berterame and Montreal defender Efrain Morales, which left Morales unconscious and required an ambulance. Inter Miami interim coach Guillermo Hoyos confirmed post-match that Berterame was conscious and recovering from the incident, describing the blow as strong but noting the player was doing well.
Suarez’s goal marked his ninth of the season and his sixth in his last three matches, sending the ball past Montreal goalkeeper Sebastian Breza. The result maintains Inter Miami’s momentum in the league, though the club’s administrative affairs remain under review by the governing body.
Lionel Messi remained on the bench for the fixture, continuing his rest following Argentina’s campaign in the 2026 World Cup. The South American side was defeated 1-0 by Spain in extra time in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal in the 105th minute. The loss marks the end of the World Cup for Messi, widely considered his final tournament appearance.
