Messi's multi-goal streak ends as Inter Miami lose 0-3 to FC Cincinnati
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Lionel Messi’s incredible run of five consecutive multi-goal performances came to a surprising halt on July 16, 2025, as Inter Miami fell 3-0 to FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. The Argentine star, who entered the match with 16 goals in the season and a five-game streak of scoring multiple goals, found himself stifled by a well-organized Cincinnati defense. The home side outclassed Inter Miami in all areas, sending a strong message across Major League Soccer.
The first goal came early, in the 16th minute, as Gerardo Valenzuela found the back of the net off a perfectly executed pass from Luca Orellano. That early breakthrough set the tone for the rest of the match. Inter Miami looked unusually sluggish, struggling to build rhythm or create scoring chances. Cincinnati’s pressing game was relentless, forcing Miami into errors and capitalizing on their disorganization. Messi, often the centerpiece of Miami’s attack, was largely neutralized and had few clear opportunities.
Brazilian midfielder Evander became the night’s standout performer, adding two goals of his own in the second half. His first came just five minutes after the break, and his second sealed the game in the 70th minute after reacting quickly to a loose ball in the box. Evander’s performance not only highlighted Cincinnati’s offensive quality but also extended his own impressive scoring streak to five consecutive MLS games. With this performance, he now stands among the league's most in-form players.
Inter Miami’s troubles were compounded when goalkeeper Óscar Ustari suffered an injury in the 26th minute and had to be replaced by young backup Rocco Ríos Novo. The disruption in defense created uncertainty at the back, and Cincinnati took full advantage. Despite boasting one of the league’s best attacks, Miami managed only two shots on target during the entire 90 minutes.
Following the match, coach Javier Mascherano pointed to the team’s intense match schedule as a contributing factor to the poor performance. Inter Miami has been competing in multiple tournaments, including the MLS, Concacaf Champions Cup, Club World Cup, and with the Leagues Cup approaching. The physical toll was evident, and it showed in their sluggish movement and lack of sharpness.
The loss snapped Inter Miami’s five-game winning streak and dropped their record to 11 wins, 4 draws, and 5 losses. Though they remain in fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings, they are now eight points behind the top team, albeit with three games in hand. For Cincinnati, the victory keeps them firmly in the playoff hunt and adds momentum to their campaign. With performances like this, they’ve made it clear they are serious contenders.
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Looking ahead, Inter Miami will need to regroup quickly. Their next challenge comes against the New York Red Bulls on July 19, a crucial game for regaining momentum. Then, they face Cincinnati again on July 26 in the Leagues Cup, giving them a quick shot at redemption. FC Cincinnati, meanwhile, will look to build on this performance when they visit Real Salt Lake.
This match marks more than just a loss for Inter Miami—it signals the first major setback in what had been a red-hot run of form. Messi’s streak may have ended, but the season is far from over. Inter Miami still has a deep, talented squad and enough time to make the adjustments needed to stay competitive. However, the signs of fatigue are becoming harder to ignore.
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Ultimately, Messi and Inter Miami will aim to bounce back fast. While this defeat may sting, it also serves as a wake-up call. With the Leagues Cup and MLS playoffs on the horizon, the Herons will need to rediscover their rhythm—and give Messi the platform to start a new streak.