Lionel Messi scored again, but Inter Miami couldn’t secure a win for the third straight MLS game. The match ended in a 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC at home on Saturday. Despite this setback, Inter Miami remains atop the Eastern Conference and has secured a playoff spot.
Charlotte Takes the Lead
Charlotte, coached by former Aston Villa boss Dean Smith, opened the scoring in the 57th minute. Brandt Bronico’s low shot deflected off Karol Swiderski, beating Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender. This goal sparked urgency in Miami’s play.
Inter Miami quickly responded. Jordi Alba found Messi with a cross, but Messi’s header went right to Kristijan Kahlina, Charlotte’s goalkeeper. Messi then tried again from the edge of the box, but Kahlina saved it once more.
Messi’s 15th Goal
Messi kept pushing. He found space just outside the penalty area and fired a left-footed shot into the bottom corner. This goal marked Messi’s 15th of the season.
Controversial Penalty Decision
In the 77th minute, Miami believed they had a penalty when Diego Gomez fell after a challenge by Adilson Malanda. Referee Ramy Touchan awarded the penalty and showed Malanda a second yellow card. However, VAR overturned the decision, showing Malanda played the ball.
Late Miss by Luis Suarez
Deep into stoppage time, Miami nearly snatched a win. Luis Suarez had a perfect setup from Alba’s header but fired over the bar from close range. This miss left Miami frustrated as they settled for another draw.
Miami’s Supporters’ Shield Chase
Inter Miami now has 65 points with three games remaining. Columbus Crew and Cincinnati trail with 57 and 56 points, respectively. Miami can clinch the Supporters’ Shield with a win or a draw against Columbus on Wednesday.
Coach Gerardo Martino urged fans to keep perspective. “We were a team that lost for years, and now we win,” he said. “We’re frustrated with three draws, but we had chances to win.”
Playoff Race Intensifies
Other MLS teams are also vying for playoff spots. In the Hudson River Derby, New York City FC won 5-1 against the New York Red Bulls. Alonso Martinez scored two goals, securing NYCFC’s playoff spot, while the Red Bulls also made the postseason.
Orlando City boosted their playoff hopes with a 3-1 win at FC Dallas. Meanwhile, LAFC secured their playoff position with a 2-1 victory over FC Cincinnati.
Seattle and Houston in the Playoffs
Results from other matches confirmed that both Seattle Sounders and Houston Dynamo would join the postseason, even before their game later on Saturday. The playoff race is heating up as teams fight for better seeding and a shot at the MLS Cup.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi continues to shine, but Inter Miami struggles to turn draws into wins. With playoffs approaching, Miami must regroup to finish the season strong. As the MLS season winds down, all eyes will be on Miami’s chase for the Supporters’ Shield and their playoff performance. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
