Inter Miami and FC Cincinnati Battle to a Tense 0-0 Draw Amid Lionel Messi Suspension

On Saturday night in Fort Lauderdale, Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati played to a goalless draw at Chase Stadium, a match marked by the notable absence of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, both suspended for skipping the MLS All-Star Game.

Messi, observing the match from a suite, was sidelined after Major League Soccer imposed a one-game suspension on him and Alba. The punishment sparked controversy, with Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas describing it as "draconian" and noting Messi’s deep disappointment ahead of a crucial phase of the season in the Supporters' Shield race.

Both teams came into the match with strong recent records; Cincinnati was second in the Supporters' Shield standings with 49 points, having won six of their last seven games, while Inter Miami stood fifth with 42 points and similarly impressive form. FC Cincinnati notably defeated Inter Miami 3-0 earlier in the week, adding intensity to this encounter.

The match itself was tightly contested and tactical, with few clear-cut chances. Cincinnati defender Miles Robinson came close to scoring in stoppage time through a header, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul. On Miami's side, veteran striker Luis Suárez displayed good passing ability, including a notable assist attempt to Fafà Picault, whose effort was kept out by Cincinnati’s goalkeeper Roman Celentano.

Before kickoff, Inter Miami officially introduced Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, a close friend and national teammate of Messi who signed with the club on Friday. De Paul was warmly welcomed by fans in attendance, promising to contribute fully to the team’s ambitions.

The stalemate leaves Miami winless in the two games Messi has missed this season, breaking a prior five-game winning streak without him. Both teams continue to vie for positioning in the fiercely competitive MLS Supporters' Shield race as the season progresses.