Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Inter Miami’s preseason struggles persisted as they suffered a narrow 4-3 defeat to Saudi club Al Hilal at Kingdom Arena. Despite goals from Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi, and David Ruiz, a late goal sealed the victory for the Saudi league leader.
The match showcased Miami’s defensive vulnerabilities, conceding two goals in the opening 13 minutes to former Fulham and Newcastle forwards Aleksandar Mitrovic and Abdullah Al-Hamdan. Despite facing a depleted Al Hilal squad missing eight players, Miami found themselves 2-0 down early in the game.
Suarez, the Uruguayan forward who recently joined the club, pulled one back for Miami in the 34th minute after a play initiated by former FC Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba. The goal, initially ruled offside but later allowed after VAR review, brought hope to the visiting team.
However, Al Hilal extended their lead to 3-1 just before halftime with a header from Brazilian forward Michael. Miami fought back in the second half, with Messi converting a penalty in the 54th minute and Ruiz equalizing a minute later with a spectacular shot.
Despite the comeback efforts, Miami couldn’t secure the win. Coach Tata Martino made substitutions in the 75th minute, but Al Hilal’s Brazilian striker Malcom found the net in the closing moments, securing the 4-3 victory.
Despite the preseason losses, midfielder David Ruiz expressed optimism about the team’s progress, emphasizing the focus on improvement leading up to the MLS season. Inter Miami’s next challenge is an eagerly anticipated match against Al Nassr, featuring superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ruiz, a 19-year-old Honduran American, shared his excitement about playing alongside football legends like Messi, Alba, Busquets, and Suarez in Saudi Arabia. He remains committed to inspiring young talents in Miami and expressed confidence in the team’s preparations for the upcoming MLS season.