Al-Hilal аꜱꜱerted dominance in the first half, securing a three-goal lead within the initial 45 minutes, with two of them coming in quick succession. Premier League veteran Aleksandar Mitrovic initiated the scoring, putting the Saudi Arabian side ahead just 10 minutes into the game. Three minutes later, Abdullah Al-Hamdan extended their lead, capitalizing on Al-Hilal’s early dominance. Despite Luis Suarez’s 34th-minute goal for Inter Miami, Michael of Al-Hilal scored in the 44th minute, accompanied by a Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired celebration, leaving Inter Miami on a disappointing note heading into halftime.

The second half witnessed a remarkable turnaround as Inter Miami fought their way back into the match. Lionel Messi converted a penalty in the 54th minute, marking his first preseason goal. Just a minute later, David Ruiz scored a spectacular goal, finding the near post to equalize at three goals each.

However, Al-Hilal had the last word, as Brazilian winger Malcom secured a decisive goal in the 88th minute, securing a 4-3 victory for the Saudi Arabian side. This dashed the hopes of Inter Miami, who had staged a spirited comeback but ultimately fell short.

While Messi and his teammates usually deliver predictable performances, if Miami can consistently rely on displays like Ruiz’s, it could significantly alter the game dynamics. Ruiz not only scored a goal but also played a crucial role in the penalty that set up Messi’s finish. With Benjamin Cremaschi sidelined due to ιnjᴜry, Ruiz stepped up as the youthful force in Miami’s midfield, unmistakably asserting his influence on the game.

The 19-year-old talent developed within the team netted three goals across various competitions during his debut MLS season last year. As he enters his second year, it’s evident that he’s growing more at ease in his environment. While he may not consistently secure a spot in the starting lineup, whenever he does, Miami stands to benefit significantly if he continues to perform as impressively as he did on Monday.

Inter Miami is extending its stay in Saudi Arabia for an additional match, with the upcoming second encounter garnering more anticipation. On Thursday, Lionel Messi and his teammates are scheduled to take on Al-Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the availability of the Portuguese star is uncertain as he is currently dealing with a recent ιnjᴜry.