MLS Suspends Luis Suarez for Inter Miami's Playoff Match Against Nashville SC

Luis Suarez banned from Inter Miami's crucial playoff match

MLS hands Inter Miami's Luis Suarez a one-match suspension for violent conduct in last weekend's loss to Nashville SC.

Luis Suarez's suspension will significantly impact Inter Miami's crucial playoff match against Nashville SC on Saturday...

Luis Suarez has been suspended for one match and fined an undisclosed amount for violent conduct after kicking Nashville defender Andy Najar in the 71st minute of Inter Miami's 2-1 loss in Game 2 of the playoff series.

The suspension means Suarez will miss Saturday's winner-take-all playoff match against Nashville, a crucial game that will determine Inter Miami's season fate. Lionel Messi won't have his longtime teammate by his side, and Inter Miami will have to rely on other players to step up.

This isn't the first time Suarez has been suspended this season. He was previously banned for three MLS games after spitting at a Seattle Sounders official during the Leagues Cup final on August 31. Suarez has a history of disciplinary issues, including previous suspensions for biting opponents.

Luis Suarez's suspension will significantly impact Inter Miami's crucial playoff match against Nashville SC on Saturday. The 38-year-old Uruguayan striker was handed a one-match ban for kicking Nashville defender Andy Najar in the second game of their best-of-three series.

The incident occurred in the 71st minute of the match, which Nashville won 2-1. Suarez's actions were deemed “violent conduct” by the MLS Disciplinary Committee, resulting in his suspension for Game 3. This is not the first time Suarez has been in trouble this season, as he previously served a three-match suspension for spitting on a Seattle Sounders staff member after Inter Miami's Leagues Cup final loss.

Luis Suarez will be suspended for the final game of the MLS Cup Playoff Round One series against Nashville SC on Saturday, sources confirmed to ESPN's @lizzy_becherano. pic.twitter.com/bGzE6FMPIK

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 5, 2025

Lionel Messi's exceptional performance was a key factor in Inter Miami's recent success. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner showcased his impressive skills, scoring three goals and adding two assists in the matches Suarez missed. His outstanding form will likely be crucial in Miami's upcoming playoff match against Nashville.

With their season hanging in the balance, Miami will likely rely heavily on Messi's scoring prowess to secure a win. As the MLS scoring champion, Messi has consistently demonstrated his ability to deliver under pressure. Inter Miami will be counting on him to lead the team to victory and avoid a third first-round exit in four years.