Messi’s Goal Streak Snapped as Inter Miami Falls to Cincinnati; De Paul Set to Join Club

Posted : 17 July 2025

Lionel Messi's remarkable run of scoring multiple goals in consecutive matches ended at five on Wednesday, as Inter Miami suffered a disappointing 3-0 loss to FC Cincinnati. The Argentine forward had scored two goals in each of his last five appearances, marking a historic streak in Major League Soccer and bringing his season total to 16 goals. This scoring feat hadn't been achieved by Messi since 2012 during his time with Barcelona. However, against a dominant Cincinnati side, Miami managed only two shots on target.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano admitted his side was second-best on the night. "We were outplayed from the start," he said, acknowledging that the team's physical fatigue contributed to their underwhelming performance. Messi also took a knock late in the game, but according to Mascherano, it did not result in a serious injury.

Cincinnati took control early, with 20-year-old American midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela opening the scoring in the 16th minute. Brazilian striker Evander added two more goals in the 50th and 70th minutes, sealing a comprehensive win. With the defeat, Miami now sits fifth in the Eastern Conference with 38 points, trailing league leaders Philadelphia by eight points. While Miami has three games in hand over both Philadelphia and second-place Cincinnati, they must win all to have a chance at taking the top spot.

Mascherano reflected on the loss with concern, saying, “The way they beat us is something that worries us. Now we must rest and prepare for our next match.” That next test will come on Saturday when Inter Miami travels to face the New York Red Bulls, who are coming off a 5-3 win over New England.

Off the pitch, Inter Miami is close to finalizing a high-profile signing. According to sources, the club has agreed to a deal with Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, currently playing for Atletico Madrid. The agreement reportedly spans four seasons, with De Paul set to join on loan for the remainder of 2025, followed by a purchase clause valued at over $12 million.

De Paul, a key member of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad and a longtime teammate of Messi, could make his debut on July 30 in Miami’s first Leagues Cup match against Mexican side Atlas. The move reunites him with Messi and could further influence Messi’s decision on whether to extend his contract, which expires at the end of 2025. Miami hopes the growing Argentine core—including Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets—will entice him to stay through the 2026 season, when the club plans to unveil its new stadium.

In related news, Charlotte has been announced as the host city for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. This year’s edition will take place in Austin, Texas, where MLS All-Stars will face off against a team of Mexican League All-Stars next Wednesday.

Messi’s Goal Streak Snapped as Inter Miami Falls to Cincinnati; De Paul Set to Join Club

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