Luis Suarez Stunned by Last-Minute Ban Before Inter Miami's Do-or-Die Game 3

Luis Suárez will miss Inter Miami's crucial Game 3 showdown against Nashville SC due to a suspension stemming from an off-the-ball altercation during last Saturday's match at GEODIS Park.

The Uruguayan forward endured a difficult performance in Game 2, which concluded with a 2–1 loss for Miami. Suárez failed to create any scoring opportunities, registered just one shot on goal, and struck the post during the opening period.

The striker's frustration reached a breaking point in the 71st minute when Suárez lashed out at Nashville's Andy Najar, causing the defender to fall in apparent discomfort. The referee overlooked the incident at the time, issuing neither a foul call nor disciplinary card.

However, four days following the contest, MLS's Disciplinary Committee intervened to penalize Suárez for his actions. The league announced that the striker has received both a fine and suspension for Game 3 due to "violent conduct," depriving Inter Miami of their primary attacking threat for the decisive encounter.

MLS's Disciplinary Committee possesses the power to impose fines or suspensions retroactively in various circumstances, particularly when determining that an incident warranted a clear red card that match officials failed to administer during play.

Inter Miami attempted to challenge the ruling but had their appeal rejected.

This marks Suárez's second disciplinary action this campaign. The 38-year-old previously received a three-match ban for spitting at a Seattle Sounders staff member after Inter Miami's loss in the Leagues Cup championship.

Inter Miami Risk Playoff Exit Without Suárez

With their MLS Cup Playoff survival at stake, Miami will be forced to proceed without Suárez for Saturday evening's match at Chase Stadium. Manager Javier Mascherano must now determine his replacement for the elimination-deciding Game 3.

The positive aspect for the Argentine tactician is the option to utilize Lionel Messi in a central striking role. The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient previously spearheaded Miami's attack during Suárez's earlier suspension this season, contributing five goals and assists across those three matches.

Mascherano could alternatively implement a 4-4-2 formation featuring Messi alongside Tadeo Allende in attack. However, Allende failed to make an impact during Game 2.

The responsibility now falls on Mascherano and Messi to secure victory in Game 3, otherwise Miami will face consecutive first-round eliminations despite winning the opening game in both 2024 and 2025.