Lionel Messi’s dazzling run of form in Major League Soccer came to an abrupt halt on Wednesday night as Inter Miami suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of FC Cincinnati.
The Argentine legend, who had scored braces in five consecutive matches, was kept quiet throughout the game, managing only two shots on target.
The match marked the end of Messi’s MLS-record streak of multi-goal games, a feat he hadn’t achieved since his Barcelona days in 2012. Despite his recent heroics, Cincinnati’s defence proved impenetrable, denying Miami any real scoring opportunities.
The hosts took the lead in the 16th minute through 20-year-old midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela. Brazilian striker Evander then doubled the advantage in the 50th minute and sealed the win with another goal in the 70th, completing a dominant performance.
With this loss, Inter Miami (11-4-5) remains fifth in the Eastern Conference with 38 points, trailing league leaders Philadelphia by eight points. Although Miami has three games in hand, it must win all of them to challenge for the top spot.
The defeat not only ends Messi’s scoring streak but also raises questions about Miami’s consistency as the playoff race intensifies.
