Suarez outshines Lewandowski on MLS debut as Inter Miami edge Chicago Fire

Inter Miami’s Luis Suarez overshadowed Robert Lewandowski’s long-awaited Major League Soccer debut, scoring twice and reaching a personal milestone in a late 3-2 win over Chicago Fire.

The high-profile clash at Miami’s new stadium marked Lewandowski’s first competitive appearance for Chicago, after his debut had been postponed due to poor air quality in a previous fixture. The Polish striker started the match but failed to find the net and was substituted midway through the second half.

Lionel Messi was absent from the encounter, having only recently featured in the World Cup final, leaving Suarez to carry the attacking spotlight for the hosts.

Suarez double turns the tide

Chicago Fire struck first, going ahead in the 18th minute thanks to an own goal, briefly silencing the home crowd and offering Lewandowski the ideal platform to mark his first MLS outing with a victory.

Miami responded through Suarez, who levelled the score from the penalty spot in the 27th minute. The Uruguayan then completed the turnaround early in the second half, putting Inter Miami 2-1 up in the 51st minute with his second goal of the game.

That strike took Suarez to 50 goals in 100 appearances in all competitions for Inter Miami, underlining his continued potency in front of goal even in the twilight of his career.

Lewandowski replaced as Fire fight back

Lewandowski’s debut ended in the 62nd minute, when he was withdrawn and replaced by Finland international Robin Lod. The former Bayern Munich and Barcelona star had worked hard across the front line but was unable to make a decisive impact on the scoresheet.

Chicago refused to fold after his substitution. They drew level in the 67th minute when Boso Dithijen found the net, setting up a tense finale between two in-form Eastern Conference sides.

Just as it appeared the match was heading for a draw, Miami reclaimed the lead. Preston Plampic struck in the 87th minute to secure all three points for the hosts and cap a dramatic contest befitting the presence of two of Europe’s most recognisable forwards.

Miami climb as Chicago’s run halted

The result lifted Inter Miami to 34 points from 16 matches, moving them into second place in the Eastern Conference. Suarez’s influence, combined with Miami’s growing depth, continues to drive the club’s challenge near the top of the standings.

Chicago Fire, meanwhile, remain third on 26 points. The defeat ended their run of three consecutive victories and served as a reminder of the fine margins at the top end of MLS.

For Lewandowski, the evening was a mixed introduction to American football: a debut delayed by environmental concerns, a match played on a high-profile stage, but ultimately overshadowed by Suarez’s ruthless finishing and Miami’s late winner.