Lionel Messi’s MLS-record streak of scoring a number of targets in 5 straight matches ended on Wednesday (July 17, 2025) night time in Inter Miami’s 3-0 loss to FC Cincinnati.
Cincinnati received a first-half purpose from Gerardo Valenzuela and two second-half strikes from Evander to stay one level behind the Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference standings. Philadelphia beat CF Montreal 2-1 on Wednesday night time.
The loss ended a five-match successful streak for Inter Miami (11-4-5) which is fifth in the Eastern Conference standings.
Messi is the primary participant in MLS historical past to have a multi-goal streak of greater than 4 matches. He was tied for the league lead with 16 targets in 17 MLS matches.
Messi has solely performed in three matches in opposition to Cincinnati since coming to MLS, however the workforce has made issues tough for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Cincinnati had 4 pictures heading in the right direction in the primary 16 minutes to none for Inter Miami, and took a 1-0 lead when Valenzuela angled a shot from the left aspect of the field for his fifth purpose of the season.
Messi’s first shot got here in the ultimate minute of first-half stoppage time and landed comfortably in the arms of keeper Roman Celentano.
Evander’s 14th purpose of the season, and fiftieth in MLS, put Cincinnati forward 2-0 lower than 5 minutes into the second half.
Cincinnati (14-3-6) additionally had a two-goal lead on Saturday in opposition to Columbus however misplaced 4-2 to the Crew. Cincinnati held on this time by neutralizing Inter Miami’s assault, led by Messi.
Evander sealed the victory when he made it 3-0 with a purpose off a rebound when Luca Orellano’s shot caromed off the keeper. Messi had an opportunity in the 78th minute, however his close-range shot was saved by a diving Celentano.
The 38-year-old Messi has performed 90-plus minutes in eight straight video games, together with 4 Club World Cup matches. At one level in the second half, he had lined the least quantity of distance of any participant.
Cincinnati performed with out second-leading scorer Kevin Denkey due to a leg damage. Cincinnati visits Real Salt Lake and Inter Miami is on the New York Red Bulls on Saturday night time.
