Messi made his injury return, scoring a game-deciding goal in the 84th minute, Jordi Alba (43’) and Luis Suarez (89’) also scored goals, and Inter Miami beat the defending MLS Cup champion L.A. Galaxy 3-1 at Chase Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 16.

Without their star Argentine playmaker, Inter Miami made use of home-field advantage and beat Tigres 2-1 in their Leagues Cup quarterfinal matchup on Wednesday. Lionel Messi had a knock and couldn't play in the pivotal match, with Luis Suarez being supported by three attacking midfielders in Rodrigo De Paul, Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia.