Rodrigo De Paul makes World Cup statement with Inter Miami golazo | OneFootball

By Alex Calabrese

Rodrigo De Paul is a man on a mission.

Inter Miami CF's Argentine midfielder sparked his team to an important road victory over Real Salt Lake at America First Field on Wednesday, blasting in an 82nd-minute game-winner.

Since being dropped from the starting lineup for each of Argentina’s two March friendlies, De Paul is on a strong run of form, tallying three assists in his last two matches.

On Wednesday, he added a screamer to that collection, making a major statement to Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni about his potential inclusion for the 2026 FIFA World Cup 50 days from now.

Finding form

De Paul was a sensation following last summer's blockbuster arrival from Atlético Madrid, embarking on a great second half of the season that concluded with scoring the winning goal in MLS Cup presented by Audi. He started slow in 2026, but is finally finding a rhythm in midfield. 

In addition to the goal, the 31-year-old had an all-around excellent shift, keeping RSL’s multi-pronged attack quiet.

Miami’s patience in the Utah altitude was rewarded with a late surge that saw De Paul give them the lead, before Luis Suárez added a late dagger with his second goal of 2026.

With the reveal of Scaloni’s World Cup roster just a few weeks away, it’s the right moment for the Argentine hopeful to impress in MLS. With De Paul hoping to once again play a starring role for La Albiceleste on the world’s biggest stage, he is trending in the right direction.

HIGHLIGHTS: Real Salt Lake vs. Inter Miami CF | April 22, 2026