Lionel Messi reacts after the team's defeat in the MLS (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)

How FC Cincinnati Stopped Messi & Inter Miami's Winning Streak

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Marcelo Cartaxo | Last updated Jul 16, 2025 11:08 PM ET

FC Cincinnati handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat, ending both Miami’s unbeaten run since returning from the Club World Cup and Lionel Messi’s record streak of consecutive games with a brace. The loss exposed significant weaknesses in Miami’s midfield and defense, highlighting the urgent need for reinforcement—like the incoming Rodrigo De Paul.

Sergio Busquets struggled under Cincinnati’s high press, unable to distribute effectively to Messi or build play from the back. As a result, Miami’s defense collapsed, conceding two goals to Brazilian striker Evander and another to Geraldo Valenzuela.

Evander is on a tear

Eight goals in five games and 23 goal contributions which is tied with Lionel Messi for the 2nd-most in the league. pic.twitter.com/5O0I4Wbx6m
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 17, 2025

Even Lionel Messi had one of his quietest performances of the season. Constant double-marking kept him isolated, forcing him to drop deeper to collect the ball, which disrupted Miami’s attacking shape. Despite the difficulties, Messi still finished as Miami’s highest-rated player with a 7.2 score from SofaScore.

Full time. We go again on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/dQOG2BHEWW
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) July 17, 2025

Inter Miami's Defensive Performance

Defensively, Inter Miami endured one of their worst performances of the year. Center-back Maximiliano Falcón and right-back Marcelo Weigandt both earned low ratings of 6.1. Sergio Busquets and Tadeo Allende also underperformed, each scoring 6.3.

Adding to Miami’s troubles, starting goalkeeper Oscar Ustari left the match with a groin injury. Backup Rocco Ríos Novo replaced him but conceded all three goals. With first-choice keeper Drake Callender already sidelined indefinitely, Miami’s defensive struggles may continue.

Rodrigo De Paul’s arrival is expected to bring much-needed stability to Miami’s midfield, though he likely won’t debut until the upcoming Leagues Cup. On the other hand, this is not the end for Inter Miami, but without Callender and a stronger defense - specially in transitions - they can be exposed in a decisive playoff match in the future. De Paul should help the defense and run for others in times like this.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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