Lionel Messi’s incredible goal-scoring streak came to an end as Inter Miami lost 3-0 to FC Cincinnati on Wednesday night.
Messi had scored multiple goals in five straight MLS games, a league record, but couldn’t find the net this time. Cincinnati’s defense kept him quiet for the full 90 minutes, limiting Miami to just two weak shots on target.
Cincinnati dominated the match from the start. Gerardo Valenzuela scored the opener in the 16th minute, and Evander added two more goals in the second half to seal the win.
Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, admitted his team was completely outplayed. He also mentioned Messi took a minor knock late in the game but said it wasn’t serious.
The loss ended Inter Miami’s five-game winning streak. The team is still in fifth place in the Eastern Conference but has some catching up to do to reach the top.
In other news, reports say Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is set to join Inter Miami on loan from Atlético Madrid, reuniting with Messi. The move could help persuade Messi to extend his contract, which ends later this year.
