Lionel Messi found the net once again, but his goal was not enough to rescue Inter Miami from another defeat. The Florida side suffered a 2–1 home loss to Toronto FC in Major League Soccer, extending their winless run in the league to three matches and adding to growing concerns over their form at a crucial stage of the season.
Miami’s difficulties have become more pronounced since returning from the World Cup break. Since 22 July, the club have played nine matches across competitions, recording three victories, two draws and four defeats. Their struggles have also affected their progress in the Leagues Cup, where consecutive defeats brought their campaign to an early end.
Saturday’s result was Miami’s second defeat in their last six MLS matches and their fourth loss across all competitions since 8 August. Despite the recent setbacks, they remain second in the Eastern Conference with 39 points from 21 matches. However, the gap at the top is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore, with leaders Nashville holding 49 points from the same number of games.
Miami looked relatively organised during the opening half against Toronto. Their defensive structure limited the visitors’ opportunities, while neither side managed to find the breakthrough. The first 45 minutes therefore ended goalless.
The match changed dramatically after the interval. Toronto took advantage of a defensive lapse to move ahead in the 59th minute, with Josh Sargent finishing to put the visitors 1–0 up. Miami were unable to recover quickly, and just three minutes later Derek Etienne Jr doubled Toronto’s advantage.
The home side pushed forward in search of a response, with Messi remaining an important figure in their attacking play. Their efforts finally produced a goal in the 82nd minute when the Argentine converted a chance to reduce the deficit.
It was Messi’s fifth goal in club football since the World Cup break, underlining his continued individual contribution. Yet the veteran forward could not produce the equaliser, and Toronto held on for a valuable away victory.
The defeat leaves Miami with little room for error in the league race. Their 39-point tally consists of 11 wins, six draws and four defeats from 21 matches. Nashville, meanwhile, are ten points clear at the summit.
For Miami, the immediate priority is clear: individual brilliance from Messi must be matched by greater defensive stability and more consistent team performances if they are to remain serious contenders for the MLS title.
