Messi Scores as Inter Miami Clinch Thrilling 5-3 Victory Over FC Cincinnati

Key facts

• Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati 5-3 on May 13, 2026.
• Lionel Messi scored the go-ahead goal for Inter Miami.
• Rodrigo De Paul provided an assist for Messi's goal.
• The match took place at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.
• Lionel Messi became the fastest player to 100 goal contributions in MLS history.
• Messi reached 100 goal contributions in 64 matches.
• FC Cincinnati had a six-game unbeaten streak prior to this match.
• The game was part of MLS Matchday 13.

High-Octane Clash at TQL Stadium

Inter Miami CF secured a dramatic 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati on May 13, 2026, in a Matchday 13 encounter that saw Lionel Messi once again prove decisive. The Florida-based club, chasing the Eastern Conference top spot, overcame a spirited FC Cincinnati side at TQL Stadium. The match, played under partly cloudy skies with temperatures around 18°C (64°F), was broadcast globally on Apple TV. FC Cincinnati entered the contest on a strong run, unbeaten in their last six games, a streak that included two wins and four draws. This resurgence had steadied the team after a slow start to the season, positioning them as potential contenders for both the MLS Cup and the Supporters' Shield prior to the 2026 FIFA World Cup pause. Their recent form included a 2-2 draw at Charlotte FC, where Designated Players Evander and Kévin Denkey found the net, marking their fifth consecutive game with at least two goals scored. However, Inter Miami, buoyed by recent strong performances and the individual brilliance of their superstar contingent, managed to break through. The match represented a significant test for FC Cincinnati, coming against the defending MLS Cup champions who had previously eliminated them from the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2025 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs with a decisive 4-0 win.

Messi's Predatory Instincts Break the Deadlock

The pivotal moment arrived when Rodrigo De Paul threaded a sharp pass through the center of the pitch. While FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga appeared well-positioned to intercept, Lionel Messi demonstrated his veteran acumen. He shielded the ball effectively, drawing a fortunate ricochet off the defender that ultimately trickled past the helpless goalkeeper into the bottom-left corner. This goal, though perhaps more a product of instinct and opportunism than signature flair, gave Inter Miami a crucial 1-0 lead. It underscored Messi's remarkable ability to find the back of the net even in tightly contested situations. The strike came after an earlier moment of brilliance from the Argentinian was disallowed; a clinical finish into the bottom-left corner was ruled offside due to a pass from Germán Berterame being released a fraction too late. The capacity crowd at TQL Stadium, transformed into a sea of blue to celebrate "513 Day," witnessed a contest that lived up to its billing. FC Cincinnati donned their primary navy blue and orange "Legacy" kits, while Inter Miami sported their iconic all-pink "2gether" home kit.

Messi's Milestone and Miami's Offensive Prowess

Lionel Messi's impact on the league continues to be historic. He recently became the fastest player in MLS history to achieve 100 goal contributions, reaching this milestone in just 64 matches. This remarkable feat shattered the previous record held by Sebastian Giovinco, who took 95 matches to reach the same mark. In his preceding outing on May 9 against Toronto FC, Messi recorded one goal and two assists in a 4-2 victory. Across his 11 MLS appearances this season, he had amassed 9 goals and 4 assists, placing him just one goal shy of the league's scoring lead. His consistent form this month, with a goal and an assist in a 3-4 loss to Orlando City on May 2, highlights his sustained offensive threat. Inter Miami's victory was a testament to their offensive capabilities, culminating in a 5-3 scoreline. The team had previously shown its scoring power in a 4-2 road victory over Toronto FC, a match that featured a combined 1 goal and 2 assists from both Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, who were recently named to Argentina's preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup.

FC Cincinnati's Strengths and Player Watch

Despite the loss, FC Cincinnati showcased their attacking intent, with Kévin Denkey, their club-record signing, leading the line. Denkey, in his second MLS season after arriving from Belgian side Cercle Brugge, has a team-leading seven goals. The team has demonstrated a capacity to score, having netted at least two goals in five consecutive matches. Defensively, Miles Robinson, a two-time MLS All-Star and Best XI selection, has returned from injury and is pushing for a USMNT roster spot for the World Cup. The squad also features versatile midfielder, whose call-up for Czechia's successful UEFA playoff campaign in March highlighted his international credentials. Ecuadorian winger Bryan Ramírez has been a consistent presence, starting all 11 of his debut MLS season games and also aiming for World Cup selection. The team's depth was tested by an injury wave, but they were largely back to full health heading into this fixture, a positive sign as the 2026 FIFA World Cup break approaches.

Matchday Atmosphere and Local Celebrations

The match was designated as "513 Day," a local celebration of Cincinnati's identity. The home crowd embraced the occasion, transforming TQL Stadium into a vibrant spectacle of blue. This gesture aimed to amplify the home advantage against the considerable traveling support that consistently follows Inter Miami. Fans were treated to several pre-match festivities. Gates opened at 6 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. kickoff, with the first 20,000 attendees receiving wearable flags courtesy of TQL. A special collaboration hat with Cincinnati Bengals center Ted Karras and The Cincy Hat Foundation was available, with proceeds benefiting local foundations. Custom-designed kit numbers, inspired by the city's culture, were also a unique feature of the match. Fans also gathered for pre-match activities at Washington Park, including a "March in the Park" leading to the stadium. These events underscored the community engagement surrounding FC Cincinnati and the significance of "513 Day" for the club and its supporters.

Navigating Stadium Access Amidst Infrastructure Work

Supporters attending the match faced logistical challenges due to ongoing construction projects. due to work on the Brent Spence Bridge, which is expected to continue through May 2029. Specific ramp closures and detours were in place, requiring motorists to adjust their routes to access TQL Stadium. Further disruptions were noted around the stadium itself, with road closures affecting vehicular and pedestrian access as part of a planned mixed-use district development north of TQL Stadium. These infrastructure changes necessitated rerouting for fans accessing certain stadium gates, such as the Workhorse Gate. Fans were advised to consult the official FC Cincinnati website for detailed information on stadium guides, parking, road closures, and bag policies to ensure a smoother matchday experience amidst these ongoing developments.

The bottom line

• Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati 5-3 in a high-scoring MLS match on May 13, 2026.
• Lionel Messi scored the decisive goal for Inter Miami, showcasing his continued impact in the league.
• Messi's performance marked another milestone in his MLS career, becoming the fastest player to 100 goal contributions.
• FC Cincinnati, despite a strong recent run, could not overcome Inter Miami's offensive firepower.
• The match was celebrated as "513 Day" in Cincinnati, featuring local activations and fan engagement.
• Supporters faced significant traffic and access challenges due to ongoing infrastructure projects around the stadium and city.