Defending MLS Cup champions Inter Miami returned to league play after the World Cup with an unusual start, as goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo committed a significant error leading to an own goal. The incident occurred in the 18th minute of the match against the Chicago Fire.
Playing the ball out from the back, Novo mishandled a pass from defender Ian Fray, allowing the ball to roll into his own net. The mistake put Miami behind early in the contest. Robert Lewandowski, recently acquired by the Chicago Fire, was positioned near Novo and could have capitalized on a mistake, but Novo's error directly put his team at a disadvantage.
Despite the early setback, Inter Miami managed to secure a 3-2 victory. Luis Suarez was instrumental in the comeback, scoring twice in the 27th and 51st minutes. Chicago equalized in the 67th minute through Puso Dithejane.
The winning goal came in the 87th minute when 20-year-old midfielder Preston Plambeck found the back of the net. The victory allowed Inter Miami to maintain their position in the MLS standings. The team currently sits second in both the Supporters Shield and Eastern Conference standings, five points behind leaders Nashville SC.
Lionel Messi was not present for the match, resting after Argentina's World Cup campaign. His teammate Rodrigo De Paul also did not participate.