Inter Miami battled back from an early deficit to secure a 1-1 draw with D.C. United on Saturday, thanks to a brilliant half-volley from Baltasar Rodriguez.
With Lionel Messi sidelined by injury and coach Javier Mascherano resting key players ahead of the Leagues Cup semifinal, Miami’s makeshift lineup started slowly. D.C. captain Jackson Hopkins struck in the 13th minute to give the hosts the lead, while further chances went begging for Aaron Herrera and Hosei Kijima.
The match shifted after Mascherano introduced Rodriguez, Sergio Busquets, and Rodrigo De Paul early in the second half. Rodriguez nearly scored moments after coming on, before leveling the match in the 64th minute with a spectacular outside-foot strike into the top corner for his first MLS goal.
D.C. pushed for a winner, with Jacob Murrell denied by the post and an offside flag, but Miami held firm to take a point.
Despite Messi’s absence, Miami continue to prove resilient, maintaining a strong record both with and without their star. The draw leaves them fifth in the Eastern Conference, still chasing the leaders with games in hand, while D.C.’s playoff hopes officially ended.
