Lionel Messi stepped up to the penalty spot in the 68th minute and calmly converted, securing a 1-1 draw for Inter Miami against the Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. The goal, Messi’s first from the penalty spot in Major League Soccer this season, came after a handball call in the box against Colorado defender Keegan Rosenberry, following a review by VAR. The Argentine superstar struck the ball low to the left corner, leaving goalkeeper William Yarbrough rooted as the ball nestled into the net.
The equalizer came after Colorado had taken the lead through a well-worked team goal in the 34th minute. Midfielder Cole Bassett threaded a pass through the Inter Miami defense to uncover Michael Barrios cutting in from the left, whose low drive past goalkeeper Drake Callender gave the Rapids a 1-0 advantage. Inter Miami responded with sustained pressure in the second half, culminating in the penalty decision after Messi’s cross from the right was blocked by Rosenberry’s extended arm.
This match marked Inter Miami’s first MLS outing since the abrupt resignation of head coach Javier Mascherano, who stepped down just 48 hours prior citing personal reasons. Assistant coach Gonzalo Pineda took over on an interim basis, overseeing a tactical shift that saw Inter Miami abandon their usual high press in favor of a more compact midfield block, aiming to absorb Colorado’s early pressure and hit on the counter.
Despite the change in leadership, Inter Miami showed resilience. Messi, who started the match and played 89 minutes before being substituted, completed 38 passes with an 89% accuracy rate, created three chances, and won five duels according to Opta data. His penalty was his seventh goal in eight MLS appearances this season, bringing his tally to seven goals and two assists in league play.
For Colorado Rapids, the point earned keeps them unbeaten in their last four MLS matches (2W, 2D) and lifts them to 18 points in the Western Conference standings, sitting just outside the playoff line. Inter Miami, with this draw, now have 22 points from 12 matches, maintaining third place in the East but seeing their lead over fifth-place Atlanta United shrink to three points.
The match was played under clear skies at an altitude of over 5,000 feet, a factor both teams acknowledged in pre-match comments. Colorado Rapids coach Chris Armas noted the thin air affects recovery between sprints, while Messi, speaking through an interpreter, said the team adjusted their hydration and pacing accordingly. The venue, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, has hosted MLS matches since 2007 and is known for its challenging conditions for visiting sides due to elevation and wind patterns.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami returns to DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to face FC Cincinnati on April 5, a critical Eastern Conference clash. Colorado Rapids host the LA Galaxy on April 6 in a match that could significantly impact playoff positioning in the West. Both teams will have a full week to prepare, with no midweek fixtures scheduled due to the international break.
As the MLS season progresses into April, the ability to secure points on the road against organized defensive sides like Colorado will be crucial for Inter Miami’s Supporters’ Shield aspirations. For now, Messi’s composure from the spot delivered a vital point, reinforcing his role not just as a scorer but as a leader in moments of pressure.
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