Messi's multi-goal streak ends as Inter Miami lose 0-3 to FC Cincinnati

Lionel Messi’s historic multi-goal streak came to an end on Wednesday night as Inter Miami suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of FC Cincinnati. The loss not only halted Messi’s remarkable five-match run of scoring two or more goals - the longest such streak in MLS history - but also snapped Miami’s five-game winning streak.

Cincinnati struck early, dominating the opening minutes with four shots on target before Inter Miami could register one. Gerardo Valenzuela broke the deadlock in the 16th minute with a low finish from the left side of the box for his fifth goal of the season.



Messi, who entered the night tied for the league lead with 16 goals in 17 MLS appearances, struggled to find rhythm. His first shot came in first-half stoppage time but was comfortably saved by Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano.


Despite playing the full 90 minutes for the eighth consecutive game, including Club World Cup fixtures, the 38-year-old showed signs of fatigue, registering the lowest distance covered of any player on the pitch at one point in the second half.

Cincinnati doubled their lead early in the second half through Evander, whose 14th goal of the season and 50th in MLS came just minutes after the restart. He later added a second in the 78th minute, burying a rebound after Luca Orellano’s shot was parried.

Cincinnati (14-3-6) stays within one point of Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia Union, who edged CF Montreal 2-1. Inter Miami (11-4-5) sits fifth and will next face the New York Red Bulls, while Cincinnati travels to Real Salt Lake.