Lionel Messi continued his high-scoring run for Inter Miami on Sunday, netting a precise free kick from a sharp angle during a 2-1 loss to the Columbus Crew. Despite the 39-year-old forward’s performance, which included his 21st goal of the MLS season, the Florida-based franchise fell in the final moments of stoppage time.
A Clinical Finish from the Right Flank
The match turned on a moment of individual brilliance in the second half. Following a penalty kick goal by Josef Martinez in the 28th minute that put the Columbus Crew ahead, Inter Miami struggled to break down the opposing defense. Positioned deep on the right sideline, Messi opted to strike directly toward the goal rather than deliver a cross into the penalty area.
The ball curled past the reach of Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte, who stands at 1.93 meters, and settled into the opposite top corner of the net. This goal marked Messi’s 102nd scoring contribution since joining the club, highlighting his continued role as a primary offensive threat in the North American league.
Late Stoppage Time Result
The momentum gained from Messi’s equalizer proved insufficient to secure points for Inter Miami. The match remained deadlocked until the ninth minute of stoppage time, when Jamal Thiaré scored for the Columbus Crew to finalize the 2-1 result. The defeat extends Inter Miami’s winless streak to five matches, a run comprised of four draws and one loss.
Despite the recent dip in form, the club maintains its third-place standing in the Eastern Conference. The team continues to manage a demanding schedule as they prepare for the final stages of the regular season.
Ballon d’Or Candidacy and International Duty
Messi remains a central figure in discussions regarding the upcoming Ballon d’Or ceremony, scheduled for October 26 in London. His 21 goals this season have positioned him as a leading candidate for the award, which would represent his 10th career honor if he were to win.
Following this club fixture, the Argentine captain is set to depart for international duty. He is expected to participate in a friendly match for Argentina against Benin, which is scheduled for October 6 in Buenos Aires. This appearance is being framed by observers as a notable late-career outing for the national team.
