Luis Suarez brace fires Inter Miami CF into MLS playoffs

Miami secure top seven finish with 2-0 win over Cincinnati

Luis Suarez collected his 10th and 11th goals of the season in the first six minutes of Saturday night's match as CF Inter Miami clinched a spot in the MLS playoffs with a 2-0 victory over FC Cincinnati.

The win ensures Inter Miami will finish in the top seven in the Eastern Conference and qualify for the playoffs for the first time in their five-year MLS history.

Clinical Suarez strikes prove decisive

Suarez, who joined Inter Miami from Atletico Madrid in July, wasted no time in making an impact. The Uruguayan striker opened the scoring just 30 seconds into the match, capitalizing on a defensive error by Cincinnati to fire home from close range.

Six minutes later, Suarez doubled Inter Miami's lead with a stunning strike from outside the box. The 36-year-old received the ball from Jean Mota and unleashed a powerful shot that flew into the top corner.

Inter Miami dominate from start to finish

Inter Miami were in control of the match from the opening whistle and created several more chances to score. Gonzalo Higuain hit the post in the first half, while Bryce Duke and Robert Taylor both went close in the second half.

FC Cincinnati never really threatened to get back into the game and Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender had a quiet night.

Playoff spot secured

With the win, Inter Miami moved up to sixth place in the Eastern Conference with 49 points from 33 games. They are now guaranteed to finish in the top seven and qualify for the playoffs.

It is a remarkable achievement for Inter Miami, who finished 11th in the Eastern Conference last season and failed to qualify for the playoffs.

What's next?

Inter Miami will finish their regular season with a match against the New England Revolution on October 9. FC Cincinnati will also finish their regular season on October 9 with a match against the Columbus Crew.