Inter Miami left it late but did enough to see off Real Salt Lake 2-0 on Wednesday, in a match that drew as much attention for the spectacle in the stands as the action on the pitch.

Supporters in Salt Lake City turned out in large numbers, many paying unusually high prices for a chance to watch Lionel Messi play a full match. The Argentine forward completed the 90 minutes, shaping several of Miami’s attacking moves, though he was unable to find a way past goalkeeper Rafael Cabral.

For long stretches, the game drifted without a breakthrough. Miami controlled phases of the first half, moving the ball with purpose, but lacked a finishing touch. Real Salt Lake held firm, extending a run that had seen them avoid defeat in six matches.

The balance shifted late in the second half. Rodrigo De Paul, arriving into the area following a corner, struck decisively in the 82nd minute. His effort beat Cabral and settled into the top-right corner, breaking a deadlock that had tested both sides’ patience.

There was little time for the hosts to respond. A minute later, Luis Suarez, introduced from the bench, reacted quickest to a headed pass from German Berterame and finished with his left foot. The goal secured the result and marked Suarez’s first of the 2026 MLS season.

After the match, De Paul spoke briefly about the performance, pointing to the team’s early control and the importance of converting chances when they come. His goal ultimately proved to be the turning point in a contest that had threatened to end without scoring.

The result extends Inter Miami’s unbeaten run since their opening day loss to Los Angeles FC. They sit second in the Eastern Conference with 18 points, just behind Nashville, who have played one game fewer.

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Beyond the standings, the night underscored the continued draw of Messi, even on an evening when he did not score. For those inside the stadium, the full appearance was part of the occasion, though it was Miami’s late efficiency that defined the outcome.