Messi Scores, But Miami Settle for a Draw

Lionel Messi found the back of the net once again, but his goal was not enough to save Inter Miami from another disappointing result. Miami suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Toronto FC in MLS on Sunday morning, extending their winless run to five matches across all competitions.

Toronto thought they had taken the lead in the 11th minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Miami then created chances of their own. In the 19th minute, Rodrigo De Paul’s pass found Luis Suarez in space, but the veteran striker fired his effort wide.

Before half-time, Messi also created several opportunities for German Berterame, but the forward was unable to finish them.

Miami suffered another setback early in the second half when left-back Sergio Reguilon was forced off in the 58th minute with a potential injury.

Toronto took advantage soon after. Following a series of quick passes, Josh Sargent found space outside the penalty area and fired a powerful left-footed shot into the net to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

Just three minutes later, Toronto doubled their advantage. Derek Etienne reacted quickest to a loose ball near the goal and calmly finished to make it 2-0.

Miami nearly conceded a third in the 81st minute, but Jordi Mihailovic’s effort was cleared off the goal line by Ian Fray.

A minute later, Messi gave Miami hope. Rodrigo De Paul played a defence-splitting pass into the box, and Messi finished with his first touch to pull one back for the hosts.

The goal was Messi’s 14th of the season and the 923rd of his professional career.

However, Miami could not find an equaliser despite pushing forward in the closing stages. Toronto held on for a 2-1 victory, leaving Inter Miami without a win in their last five matches across all competitions.

The defeat also dealt another blow to Miami’s hopes of challenging for the MLS title. They have 39 points from 21 matches in the Eastern Conference, with 11 wins and six draws. Nashville remain top with 10 more points from the same number of games.