No Messi, no problem: Suarez shows his class in Inter Miami victory

With Lionel Messi ruled out through minor injury, Luis Suarez stepped into the spotlight and delivered a masterclass, leading Inter Miami to a crucial 3-1 win over Pumas UNAM in the MLS Leagues Cup. The Uruguayan veteran took control from the start, wearing the No. 9 and guiding Javier Mascherano's side through to the quarter-finals while his former Barcelona teammate and close friend and captain watched approvingly from the stands.

With their captain ruled out, it was the perfect opportunity for others to step up, and they delivered.

It wasn't the easiest start for Miami, though. Pumas caught them off guard in the 34th minute when Jorge Ruvalcaba found the net.

But just when things were looking tricky, new arrival from Atlético Madrid Rodrigo De Paul popped up with the equaliser right before half-time. It was Luis Suárez who provided the cross.

The second half was all about Suarez. He thought he'd scored early on, complete with his trademark celebration, only to see the flag go up. Then he picked up a silly yellow card. You could see the frustration building.

That's when the magic happened. Suarez won a penalty in the 59th minute and stepped up with that cheeky grin we all know. The Panenka was perfect — right down the middle as the keeper dove away. Pure class. A proper Panenka. This time the celebration counted, and the crowd went wild. You could almost see Messi smiling from his seat, watching his old friend do what he does best.

Ten minutes later, Suarez turned provider again, setting up Tadeo Allende for the third.

For Messi, watching his teammates shine without him must have been bittersweet, he must be proud of their performance but eager to get back on the pitch himself.