Messi Inspires Inter Miami to Wild 5-3 Comeback Win at Cincinnati

Key facts

• Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati 5-3 on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
• Lionel Messi scored two goals and provided one assist in the match.
• Mateo Silvetti equalized for Inter Miami in the 79th minute.
• German Berterame scored the go-ahead goal for Inter Miami in the 84th minute.
• Kevin Denkey, Pavel Bucha, and Evander scored for FC Cincinnati.
• Inter Miami now holds a seven-game road winning streak.
• This was the third time this season Messi has recorded at least three goal contributions in a single game.

Eight-Goal Thriller Sees Miami Rally Past Cincinnati

In a dramatic encounter that saw multiple lead changes, Inter Miami secured a thrilling 5-3 road victory over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The win, fueled by the brilliance of Lionel Messi, extended Inter Miami's impressive away winning streak to seven matches. The match, played in front of a sell-out crowd at TQL Stadium, lived up to its billing as a contest between two of the Eastern Conference's highest-scoring teams. The offensive fireworks began early, with Lionel Messi opening the scoring in the 24th minute. His close-range effort deflected off Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga and found the back of the net. However, the hosts responded before halftime, with Kevin Denkey converting a penalty kick in the 41st minute to level the score at 1-1. The second half escalated the drama, as Cincinnati took a 2-1 lead through Pavel Bucha in the 49th minute. Messi quickly answered, equalizing for Miami in the 55th minute after a well-crafted play involving Luis Suarez. The seesaw battle continued when Evander restored Cincinnati's advantage in the 64th minute with a precise strike from outside the box, making it 3-2.

Messi's Masterclass and Late Goals Seal Victory

Despite falling behind for a third time, Inter Miami displayed remarkable resilience. Substitute Mateo Silvetti, returning from injury, netted the equalizer in the 79th minute, setting the stage for a frantic finish. Just five minutes later, in the 84th minute, German Berterame scored the go-ahead goal for Miami following a collision involving Cincinnati's goalkeeper and a defender. The decisive moment came late in the match when Messi's shot struck the post and rebounded off Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano for an own goal, padding Inter Miami's lead to 5-3. This marked the third time this season the Argentine superstar has achieved at least three goal contributions in a single game. Lionel Messi's performance was central to the comeback, with two goals and an assist. His overall impact was so significant that he was credited with a third goal in the 89th minute, though it was later officially ruled an own goal by Celentano. This near-hat trick would have been his 61st in all competitions.

Cincinnati's Uncharacteristic Collapse

For FC Cincinnati, the defeat marked a rare occasion of losing after holding a lead late in the game. It was the first time in 64 matches since Pat Noonan took over as coach in 2023 that the team suffered a loss when ahead after the 75th minute. Kevin Denkey, Pavel Bucha, and Evander were the goal scorers for the home side. Despite the offensive output, Cincinnati's defense struggled to contain Inter Miami's potent attack, particularly in the closing stages. The team conceded three goals in the final 11 minutes of the match, a stark contrast to their usual defensive solidity. Goalkeeper Roman Celentano was involved in two of the late goals, first being caught out of position for Berterame's winner and then having Messi's shot deflect off him for an own goal.

Inter Miami's Road Dominance and Defensive Concerns

Inter Miami's away form continues to be a defining characteristic of their season, with the victory improving their road record to an impressive 7-1-1. The team leads MLS in goals scored, with 31 over 13 games. Their offensive prowess was again on full display, having scored 12 goals in their last three matches. However, the team's defensive frailties remain a persistent issue. They have conceded nine goals in their past three games, and the match against Cincinnati highlighted their susceptibility to conceding multiple goals, even when holding a lead. Interim coach Guillermo Hoyos praised his team's mentality and effort, stating, "They showed they did not come to MLS to vacation. They left it all out there and showed that here in MLS we play football, too." He also highlighted the importance of defensive midfielder Yannick Bright for providing balance.

Player Performances and Tactical Notes

Lionel Messi's influence extended beyond his goals and assist; he was instrumental in initiating attacks and creating opportunities. Luis Suarez also played a key role, starting his fourth consecutive game and linking up effectively with Messi. For Cincinnati, the defensive lapses were particularly costly. Matt Miazga's error led to the opening goal, and defensive coverage was found wanting on several occasions, notably on Cincinnati's second goal where Pavel Bucha was left unmarked. Goalkeeper Roman Celentano, while making saves, was ultimately unable to prevent Miami's late surge, being involved in two of the final three goals conceded.

Looking Ahead: Messi's Continued Impact

The victory underscores Inter Miami's potential when their star players are in form and the team capitalizes on their offensive strengths. Their ability to mount comebacks, particularly on the road, suggests a strong mental fortitude. As the season progresses, Inter Miami will aim to address their defensive inconsistencies to fully leverage their attacking firepower. The continued stellar performances from Lionel Messi, who has 61 goals and 42 assists in 65 regular-season matches, will be crucial for their aspirations. For FC Cincinnati, the loss serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins in MLS and the need to maintain defensive concentration throughout the entire match, especially against elite opposition.

The bottom line

• Lionel Messi was the decisive figure in Inter Miami's 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati, scoring twice and contributing an assist.
• Inter Miami's road winning streak now stands at seven games, highlighting their strong performance away from home.
• The match featured multiple lead changes and demonstrated Inter Miami's ability to mount comebacks.
• Despite their offensive success, Inter Miami continues to exhibit defensive vulnerabilities.
• FC Cincinnati suffered a rare defeat after holding a late lead, marking an uncharacteristic collapse.
• The game underscored the significant impact Lionel Messi has on MLS, both in terms of individual brilliance and elevating the league's profile.