Lionel Messi’s Multi-Goal Streak Ends as Inter Miami Falls 3-0 to FC Cincinnati

Eppe Franklyne –

• Messi’s MLS-record streak of five consecutive multi-goal games came to an end as Inter Miami lost 3-0 to FC Cincinnati.
• The 38-year-old Argentine had scored two or more goals in each of his previous five matches, totaling 16 goals this season.
• FC Cincinnati dominated, limiting Miami to just two shots on goal and scoring three unanswered goals through Gerardo Valenzuela and Evander.
• Miami sits fifth in the Eastern Conference with 38 points, trailing Philadelphia and Cincinnati but holding three games in hand.
• To overtake the league leaders, Inter Miami must win all their remaining matches and rely on rivals dropping points.

Lionel Messi’s incredible run of scoring multiple goals in five straight Major League Soccer games came to a halt on Wednesday as his Inter Miami team was convincingly defeated 3-0 by FC Cincinnati. The 38-year-old forward had been in sensational form, replicating a feat he last achieved during his 2012 Barcelona days, but Cincinnati’s disciplined defense and clinical attack left Miami largely ineffective.

Miami struggled to create chances, managing only two shots on goal throughout the match, while Cincinnati capitalized early and often. Young US midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela put the home side ahead in the 16th minute. Brazilian forward Evander then secured the win with two goals in the second half, striking in the 50th and 70th minutes.

With this loss, Inter Miami now holds 38 points and occupies fifth place in the Eastern Conference. They trail first-place Philadelphia by eight points and sit just behind Cincinnati in the overall league standings. Despite having three games in hand over these rivals, Miami faces a challenging path ahead and must win all remaining matches to realistically challenge for the MLS title.

Messi’s streak may have ended, but the Argentine star remains a crucial figure for Miami as the team pushes toward the playoffs. The next few weeks will be vital as they aim to close the gap on the league leaders.