Inter Miami Stages Dramatic Comeback Against FC Cincinnati

Key facts

• Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati 5-3 on Wednesday night.
• Lionel Messi scored two goals and provided an assist.
• Mateo Silvetti scored the equalizer for Inter Miami in the 79th minute.
• Germán Berterame scored the go-ahead goal in the 84th minute.
• FC Cincinnati had led 2-1 and later 3-2 in the second half.
• This win extends Inter Miami's road winning streak to seven matches.
• The match featured the two highest-scoring teams in the Eastern Conference.

Eight-Goal Thriller Sees Miami Triumph

In a dramatic encounter at TQL Stadium, Inter Miami secured a thrilling 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday night, extending their impressive road winning streak to seven matches. The highly anticipated clash between the Eastern Conference's two highest-scoring teams lived up to its billing, delivering an eight-goal spectacle in front of a sell-out crowd. Lionel Messi was instrumental in the comeback, contributing two goals and an assist to turn the tide for his side. The Argentinian legend's performance marked his third match this season with at least three goal contributions, underscoring his pivotal role in Inter Miami's campaign. The victory was hard-fought, with FC Cincinnati twice taking the lead in the second half before Inter Miami mounted a late surge to claim all three points. The result ensures Inter Miami maintains its winning momentum on the road.

Messi Opens Scoring Frenzy

The scoring opened in the 24th minute when Lionel Messi capitalized on a defensive lapse. Charging into the box, he punished a mistake by Cincinnati center back Matt Miazga, blasting the ball past goalkeeper Roman Celentano to give Inter Miami an early 1-0 lead. The first half remained relatively quiet until the 41st minute when Cincinnati star striker Kévin Denkey converted a penalty kick, leveling the score at 1-1. The penalty was conceded after Gonzalo Luján tugged on Denkey's jersey. Cincinnati's defense, including Luján, had struggled to contain the opposing forwards. Despite Luján being brought in to shore up the backline, he was responsible for the foul that led to the equalizer.

Second-Half Battle Sees Lead Changes

The second half ignited into a back-and-forth affair, with FC Cincinnati emerging with renewed vigor to take a 2-1 lead. Pavel Bucha found the net in the 49th minute, putting the hosts ahead. Messi, however, responded swiftly, equalizing for Inter Miami just six minutes later with a cutback pass from Luis Suarez, making it 2-2. This marked the second time Messi had found the net in the match. Cincinnati regained the lead in the 64th minute through Evander, who delivered a precise shot from outside the box into the upper corner, making it 3-2. This goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy, with many believing the win was within reach.

Late Surge Secures Victory for Miami

Despite Cincinnati's late lead, Inter Miami orchestrated a remarkable comeback in the final minutes. Mateo Silvetti, introduced as a substitute, drew Inter Miami level at 3-3 in the 79th minute, shifting the momentum decisively. The go-ahead goal came in the 84th minute from Germán Berterame. Following a set-piece situation and a collision between Cincinnati's goalkeeper Roman Celentano and defender Andrei Chirila, Berterame slotted the ball into an open net. Messi appeared to complete his hat trick in the 89th minute, but his shot hit the post and deflected off Celentano for an own goal. This would have been his 61st career hat trick across all competitions. The final score settled at 5-3 after Inter Miami added a final goal.

Historical Context and Player Performances

The match marked a significant milestone for FC Cincinnati, as it was the first time in 64 matches since Pat Noonan took over as coach in 2023 that they lost when holding a lead after the 75th minute. Lionel Messi's two goals and an assist bring his MLS regular-season total to 61 goals and 42 assists in 65 matches. His performance continues to highlight his enduring impact on the league. Player ratings from the match indicated a mixed bag for Inter Miami's defense. Goalkeeper Drake Callender received a D- for his efforts, while right back Ian Fray earned a B for his contributions after returning from injury. Defenders Gonzalo Luján and Micael received C- grades, with Sergio Reguilón also struggling at left back, receiving a D.

Looking Ahead: Road Streak and League Position

With this crucial away victory, Inter Miami has now won seven consecutive road matches, a testament to their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. This streak is vital as the team continues its push in the Eastern Conference standings. FC Cincinnati, meanwhile, will need to analyze the reasons for their late collapse and address defensive frailties that were exposed. The loss at home, especially after holding a lead, will be a difficult one to process. The remaining minutes of added time, totaling eight minutes, provided a tense finale. The final whistle confirmed Inter Miami's comeback triumph, leaving fans to ponder the dramatic shifts in momentum that characterized the encounter.

The bottom line

• Inter Miami secured a 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati after trailing in the second half.
• Lionel Messi was central to the win with two goals and an assist.
• The victory extends Inter Miami's current road winning streak to seven games.
• FC Cincinnati lost despite holding a lead late in the match.
• Germán Berterame scored the decisive go-ahead goal for Inter Miami.
• Mateo Silvetti's equalizer in the 79th minute was crucial to the comeback.