Suárez Penalty Lifts Inter Miami Over Montreal; Berterame Injured

Luis Suárez converted a penalty in the 81st minute to secure a narrow 0-1 victory for Inter Miami against CF Montreal. The win came in the second consecutive match without star player Lionel Messi, who is resting after the World Cup. The game also marked the debut of new Inter Miami signing Casemiro, who played the full 90 minutes.

The decisive penalty was awarded after a frightening collision in the box involving Montreal's Germán Berterame. The Argentinian forward had to be stretchered off the field and was taken to the hospital by ambulance after an aerial challenge with defender Efraín Morales. Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos confirmed post-match that Berterame was conscious.

Inter Miami took advantage of Nashville SC's 1-0 defeat to Orlando City, narrowing the gap to two points at the top of the Eastern Conference. Nashville currently leads with 39 points, while Inter Miami has 37.

In other MLS news, New England Revolution convincingly defeated Atlanta United 4-1, with goals from Carles Gil and others. New York City FC beat Chicago Fire 3-1, featuring goals from Argentinians Nicolás Fernández and Agustin Ojeda. Robert Lewandowski, still seeking his first MLS win, played the second half for the Fire. Charlotte FC secured a 3-0 win over Houston Dynamo, while Vancouver Whitecaps maintained their lead in the Western Conference despite a goalless draw with Minnesota United.

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The 'Pistolero' has assumed leadership in the Inter Miami matches without the Argentine, being the protagonist in both games.