Messi-less Miami downs DC United as super-sub Luis Suarez bags a brace in 3-1 victory that keeps the Herons atop MLS before the international break

With Lionel Messi out and Inter Miami playing a third match in seven days, there were many questions about the quality of the squad that manager Tata Martino would field on a road trip to the country’s capital.

But a lack of Messi was no cause for concern for the Herons. A substitute from striker Luis Suarez made the difference as the Uruguayan grabbed a brace in a 3-1 win over DC United.

Without Messi, the Herons relied heavily on the counter-attack and that did wonders for the team, who now lead the MLS with ten points from their first five games.

19,365 people flocked to Audi Field in the southwest corner of the city. Many knew full well that they would not see the Argentine World Cup winner take the field.

But the Herons were able to put on a show anyway – and thanks to their super sub, the competition’s most talented team will enter the international breakthrough still at the top of the table.

THIS IS A DEVELOPMENT STORY. MORE TO FOLLOW.