Messi-less Inter Miami Held to Goalless Draw by Cincinnati in MLS

Inter Miami were held to a 0-0 stalemate by Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati in Major League Soccer on Saturday, missing a golden opportunity to close the points gap—with Lionel Messi absent due to suspension.

The Argentine star, along with fellow veteran Jordi Alba, was sidelined for the home fixture at Fort Lauderdale following their controversial withdrawal from the MLS All-Star Game earlier in the week.

Both players watched from the stands as Miami struggled to break down a resolute Cincinnati defence in a match that ultimately ended goalless.

Key Match Summary

• Lionel Messi & Jordi Alba: Suspended after All-Star Game withdrawal
• Disallowed Goal: Cincinnati’s Miles Robinson had a stoppage-time header ruled out due to a contentious foul on Noah Allen
• Standings Impact: Miami remain 7 points behind Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference table

MLS Eastern Conference Standings (Top Positions)

(Exact point values not disclosed in source)

Rodrigo De Paul Unveiled Ahead of Kick-off

In a highlight off the pitch, Inter Miami formally introduced new signing Rodrigo De Paul, Argentina’s World Cup-winning midfielder, who joins from Atlético Madrid.

The 31-year-old is set to debut during Miami’s upcoming Leagues Cup campaign, bringing further star power to a squad already featuring Messi, Alba, and Sergio Busquets.

Rodrigo De Paul on Joining Inter Miami:
“What brings me to Inter Miami is the desire to compete, win titles, to write the pages in the club’s history… It’s a club that is shaping up to be great.”

David Beckham Welcomes De Paul

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham expressed his enthusiasm over De Paul’s arrival:

“Rodrigo brings experience, passion and quality. I’ve admired him for years—especially what he’s brought to Argentina as a leader.
I’m thrilled to welcome another World Cup winner not just to Inter Miami, but to MLS.”

Despite the on-pitch frustrations, the unveiling of De Paul marks another ambitious step forward for Inter Miami, as they continue building one of the most high-profile squads in the league.