Houston Dynamo’s Nigerian duo, Obafemi Awodesu and Ibrahim Aliyu, endured a tough night as their side suffered a crushing 4-1 home defeat to Inter Miami.
With Lionel Messi absent, Houston saw an opportunity to capitalize—but Luis Suarez had other plans. The veteran Uruguayan forward delivered a stunning performance, rolling back the years with a display that left the Dynamo defense in disarray.
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano turned to his former Barcelona teammate, and Suarez responded in spectacular fashion. The 37-year-old was involved in all four goals for Miami, notching three assists before sealing the victory with a sensational solo effort in the second half.
Houston’s defense struggled to contain the former Liverpool and Barcelona striker, who orchestrated Miami’s attack with precision, vision, and a clinical edge.
Awodesu, who is eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents, is still finding his feet in Major League Soccer. The Philadelphia-born defender was making only his second MLS appearance after debuting in last month’s 2-1 loss to FC Dallas.
Meanwhile, compatriot Ibrahim Aliyu started the match but was substituted in the 53rd minute after a quiet outing. The former Flying Eagles star, who rose to prominence at the 2019 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, struggled to make an impact against Inter Miami’s dominant display.
Aliyu, 23, has been a key player for Houston since his €2 million move from Croatian side NK Lokomotiva in 2023. He has featured in 60 MLS matches, contributing nine goals and six assists.
Following the humbling defeat, Houston Dynamo will aim for redemption when they travel to face Columbus Crew SC on Saturday, March 8. Kickoff is set for 1:30 p.m. CT.
