Messi’s Inter Miami Held to 2-2 Draw by FC Cincinnati

MIAMI — Inter Miami CF were held to a 2-2 draw by FC Cincinnati in a Major League Soccer (MLS) regular-season match on Wednesday, as a late equalizer from Brazilian youngster Riquelme helped Miami avoid a second consecutive defeat. Luis Suárez opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 61st minute, putting the home side ahead after a closely contested encounter at Nu Stadium in Miami.

FC Cincinnati responded in the closing stages. Kenji Mboma Dem equalized in the 80th minute before Samuel Gidi scored six minutes later to give the visitors a 2-1 lead. With Miami facing the prospect of another loss, Riquelme struck in the 90th minute to restore parity and secure a point for the home team.

Miami had to fight back after Cincinnati turned the match around with two goals in the final 10 minutes of regulation time. Suárez’s goal had initially put the hosts in a favorable position, but Cincinnati’s late attacking pressure changed the momentum. Mboma Dem brought the visitors level before Gidi’s goal appeared to put them on course for victory. Riquelme’s late intervention, however, ensured that Miami avoided defeat.

Lionel Messi featured in the match, although he did not score. The draw came at an important stage of the MLS regular season, with both clubs seeking to strengthen their positions in the Eastern Conference standings. For Inter Miami, the late equalizer provided some relief after a difficult spell. Cincinnati, meanwhile, will be disappointed not to have held on after taking the lead so late in the game.

Miami will now turn its attention to its next league fixture against the New England Revolution on November 1, while Cincinnati are scheduled to face the Philadelphia Union on October 31.

Final score: Inter Miami CF 2-2 FC Cincinnati
Goals:
61′ — Luis Suárez (Inter Miami)
80′ — Kenji Mboma Dem (FC Cincinnati)
86′ — Samuel Gidi (FC Cincinnati)
90′ — Riquelme (Inter Miami)