Inter Miami’s nine-game winning streak, propelled by the arrival of Lionel Messi, came to an end Wednesday when the team played to a 0-0 draw against Nashville SC. The team controlled 70% possession against Nashville but failed to capitalize on several key opportunities.
Despite not scoring for just the second game in his MLS career, Messi still played very well, and received admiration from fans for a pass in the 27th minute which nearly resulted in a goal. Inter Miami has played to a draw in regulation several times, but because those games occurred in tournament formats, the team had the opportunity to win on penalties.
The draw makes Inter Miami’s path to the MLS Playoffs even tougher than it was before, as the team will likely have to win every game remaining on its schedule to even have a remote chance of reaching the postseason. Inter Miami was firmly in last place when Messi arrived, and despite winning the Leagues Cup, the team needs to move up from 14th place to 9th in order to advance.
For the second game, Messi has not spoken to media, typically against MLS rules. When the star did not speak to reporters after the team’s game against the New York Red Bulls, the league claimed that it was the result of a miscommunication.
“There was a misunderstanding regarding Lionel Messi’s media access,” MLS said. “He has not violated any guidelines for his media availability in Major League Soccer.”
Regardless of whether or not Messi leads Inter Miami to an MLS Cup this season, he has made an immediate impact on the American soccer market. Tickets to MLS games featuring him can cost 10 times as much as the average ticket price around the rest of the league. He has stirred up the city of Miami as well, as his home games have become must-see events for those who can afford to attend. Away games act as more of a traveling tour than a competitive sporting event, as teams around the country have already sold out arenas in anticipation of his upcoming matches.
