The end of Lionel Messi’s remarkable scoring streak culminating in Inter Miami’s humbling defeat is a reminder that even the greatest superstars eventually face a reckoning. For weeks, Messi seemed unstoppable, dazzling fans and carrying Inter Miami to victory after victory with his breathtaking consistency.
Yet on a sultry, humid night at Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium, his magic faltered on Wednesday night. For the first time in six games, the 38-year-old Argentine maestro was unable to find the back of the net, and with their talisman subdued, Inter Miami collapsed to a resounding 3–0 loss at the hands of a determined FC Cincinnati, leaving the fans heartbroken.
A streak for the ages ends
The Argentine legend had scored multiple goals in each of his last five matches, becoming the first player in Major League Soccer (MLS) history to achieve such a feat. Fans came to Cincinnati expecting more magic, but instead witnessed a disciplined home side stifle Miami’s attack and keep Lionel Messi quiet all night.
Lionel Messi remains tied at the top of the MLS scoring charts with 16 goals, but the game highlighted just how dependent Miami have become on his brilliance.
How the game unfolded
The home crowd roared when Gerardo Valenzuela gave Cincinnati an early lead in the 16th minute, finishing a slick team move with precision. Inter Miami suffered another setback minutes later when their goalkeeper Óscar Ustari injured his hand and was replaced, disrupting the defensive rhythm.
In the second half, Brazilian midfielder Evander took charge of the match, scoring twice in the 50th and 70th minutes to seal a memorable win for Cincinnati. His performance not only secured three points but also strengthened his own candidacy as one of the league’s standout players this season.
Tactics & fatigue show
After the game, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano said: “Yes, I think we were clearly outclassed today. From the start of the match, we struggled a lot, especially in the individual encounters, to win. Perhaps one of the reasons is that we were physically very stressed, and in the long run, that ends up costing us. Unfortunately, we didn’t play the game we wanted from the start. They put us under pressure all the time. We struggled, we weren’t fresh, we couldn’t be sharp, and well, the truth is, they beat us very well.”
Impact on standings
The defeat ended Miami’s five-game unbeaten run and dropped them to fifth place in the Eastern Conference, while Cincinnati climbed into second place, narrowing the gap at the top of the table. Miami’s record now stands at 11 wins, 4 draws, and 5 losses. For Cincinnati, this was a statement win, showing they are serious contenders this season.
What this means going forward
Lionel Messi’s streak may have ended, but his form remains a vital factor in Miami’s playoff ambitions. The team will need to regroup quickly as they face the New York Red Bulls next. For Cincinnati, the victory boosts morale and solidifies their reputation as one of the most balanced and dangerous squads in the league. Mascherano also acknowledged that Messi had suffered a knock late in the game but downplayed the severity: “Leo suffered a knock at the end but it ended well.”
Next fixtures
- Inter Miami: at New York Red Bulls
- FC Cincinnati: at Real Salt Lake
Even the greatest have their off nights, and for Messi, this game was a reminder of the challenges of a long season and the importance of team support. For Cincinnati, it was proof that strong tactics, teamwork, and determination can overcome even the brightest star. One streak may have ended but the season is far from over.
