Lionel Messi’s impressive scoring run in Major League Soccer stopped on Wednesday.
The 38-year-old Argentine forward went scoreless as Inter Miami fell 3-0 to FC Cincinnati.
Messi had scored twice in each of his last five games, this boosted his season total to 16 goals.
During that period, Inter won four matches and drew one, his last similar streak was in 2012 with Barcelona.
Cincinnati limited Miami to just two shots on goal, Coach Javier Mascherano said, “They outplayed us early on.”
He added, “We were tired. Messi got a small injury but recovered.”
Cincinnati Shines Bright
FC Cincinnati controlled the game. U.S. midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela scored in the 16th minute.
Brazilian forward Evander added goals in the 50th and 70th minutes.
Mascherano noted, “We didn’t perform well. They kept us under pressure. We lacked energy.” Miami’s record is now 11-4-5.
They have 38 points, this puts them fifth in the Eastern Conference. They are eight points behind Philadelphia.
Philadelphia leads MLS after beating Montreal, Cincinnati trails by one point. Miami has three extra games. Winning them could lift them to the top.
Upcoming Match
Mascherano admitted, “The loss concerns us. They dominated throughout.” Miami’s next game is Saturday.
They will play the New York Red Bulls. The Red Bulls won 5-3 against New England on Wednesday.
Eric Choupo-Moting and Emil Forsberg each scored twice. Mascherano said, “We need rest and a new plan.” The team hopes to recover soon.
New Player Joins the Squad
A source told AFP that Inter Miami signed Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul. He plays for Atletico Madrid.
The agreement spans four years. De Paul will join on loan until year-end. Inter can buy him for over $12 million.
His debut might be July 30 against Atlas in the Leagues Cup. This tournament includes MLS and Mexican teams.
De Paul, 31, leaves Europe after four seasons, he will team up with Messi again. They won the 2022 World Cup together.
This move comes 11 months before the 2026 World Cup. Messi’s contract ends this year.
He hasn’t decided on the World Cup. De Paul’s arrival may keep Messi at Inter.
The club wants him for 2026. A new stadium will open then. De Paul joins Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets.
All-Star Game Update
Charlotte will host the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. This year’s event is next Wednesday in Austin, Texas. MLS All-Stars will face Mexican League All-Stars.
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