Inter Miami CF remain unbeaten in their last 10 games after a 0-0 draw against Nashville SC in their first home Major League Soccer (MLS) game since the arrival of Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar had an off night by his standards, failing to contribute with a goal or assist for the first time in his Inter Miami era.
Despite his lack of goals, Messi led all players with seven shots and had a golden chance to win the game in the dying seconds. However, Nashville goalkeeper Elliot Panicco denied Messi’s shot with his weaker right foot.
Prior to this draw, Messi had played nine games for Miami since joining MLS in July, and all nine had resulted in wins. Six of those wins came from the run of play, while three were achieved via penalty shootouts across Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and MLS matches.
Messi’s magical left boot failed to produce a decisive play on Wednesday, and Miami dropped crucial points in their bid to reach the MLS playoffs. It was the first time Miami was held scoreless since Messi’s arrival.
Nashville’s game plan to keep as many players behind the ball as possible frustrated the Miami players and coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino. Martino expressed frustration about the lack of time he has had to work with the squad due to the compressed schedule since taking over.
Miami struggled to break through Nashville’s defense in the first 60 minutes, with no shots on goal during that period. Messi attempted a free kick in the 60th minute but was unable to find the back of the net.
Despite the draw, Inter Miami fans still held out hope for another Messi magic moment. They recorded Messi’s free kick, hoping for a repeat of his debut goal against Mexican Club Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup opener.
Nashville had a goal disallowed due to an offside call in the 69th minute. Messi had another chance in the 83rd minute, but his shot was blocked by a wall of defenders.
The draw leaves Miami with 22 points and 10 games remaining, 10 points behind the final playoff spot currently held by the Chicago Fire. Messi and his teammates will travel to BMO Stadium for a match against defending MLS Cup champions LAFC on Sunday.
Following the LAFC match, Miami will enjoy their longest break in over a month before facing a struggling Sporting Kansas City side at home on Saturday, September 9th. Unfortunately, the team will be without Messi and up to 10 other players due to international call-ups.
Despite the draw, Inter Miami had something to celebrate before the game as they showed off their newly-acquired Leagues Cup trophy to their home fans. Co-owner Jorge Mas expressed his delight at the club’s first title before Messi and former captain DeAndre Yedlin raised the cup for all four sides of the DRV PNK Stadium.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this story.