Messi (in pink shirt) still shone with one goal and one assist despite being tightly marked by opponents - Photo: AFP
On the morning of May 3rd, Inter Miami suffered a 3-4 defeat against Orlando City in Round 11 of the 2026 MLS (Major League Soccer).
Hosting the team currently second-to-last in the Eastern Conference at their home arena, Nu Stadium, Inter Miami started the game with great enthusiasm and created tremendous pressure right from the opening whistle.
It took just four minutes for the home team to open the scoring thanks to a header from Ian Fray following a precise cross from Telasco Segovia.
In the 25th minute, Lionel Messi made his mark with an assist, setting up Telasco Segovia to tap the ball in from close range, doubling the lead. Inter Miami's attacking prowess continued in the 33rd minute.
The Argentinian superstar himself produced a classy piece of skill, dribbling past the Orlando City defense before unleashing a powerful shot from outside the penalty area, giving Inter Miami a 3-0 lead after just over half an hour of play.
However, the overwhelming advantage led to complacency in Inter Miami's defense. In the 39th minute, Martin Ojeda scored with a powerful shot, reducing the deficit to 1-3 for the visitors.
Messi and his teammates are yet to win at their new home stadium - Photo: AFP
In the second half, despite Inter Miami having over 60% possession, they unexpectedly slowed down and allowed their opponents to mount a strong comeback. In the 68th minute, Martin Ojeda continued his brilliance to complete his brace, narrowing the gap to just one goal.
In the 79th minute, Inter Miami conceded a penalty after a foul by Maximiliano Falco. From the penalty spot, Martin Ojeda made no mistake to equalize 3-3, completing his hat-trick.
Inter Miami's tragedy reached its climax in injury time. In the 90+3 minute, Tyrese Spicer unexpectedly broke free and fired a shot past goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, securing a 4-3 victory for Orlando City.
This bitter comeback defeat not only diminished the significance of Messi's brilliant performance but also extended Inter Miami's winless streak at their new home stadium, Nu Stadium, to four matches.
This result further exposes a host of problems in Inter Miami's defense as they attempt to defend their MLS title.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/dan-truoc-3-ban-messi-cung-inter-miami-van-de-thua-soc-20260503090456655.htm
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