Inter Miami are navigating a difficult stretch after a painful 2-1 defeat to Columbus Crew at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, a result that underlines the fine margins separating them from the top of the Eastern Conference. The Herons held their own for much of the contest and Lionel Messi equalised in the 33rd minute, but a red card for substitute Santiago Morales deep in stoppage time left them with ten men, and Jamal Thiare punished them immediately to seal the win for Columbus. It was a match Miami controlled in terms of possession but could not convert, managing just three shots on target despite holding 56 percent of the ball, as reported in the Inter Miami player ratings from Goal.

The defeat stings because of where it leaves them in the standings. Miami sit third in the Eastern Conference on 46 points from 27 matches, level with second-placed New England Revolution but trailing on position, with Charlotte FC just three points behind in fourth. The title race is tight and there is no room for further slip-ups.

Off the pitch, Messi's world extends well beyond MLS. He recently completed a takeover of Spanish second division side Eldense, as Goal reported, marking his first club ownership in Spain. He also returned to Argentina ahead of an emotional farewell match with the national team, according to Goal. Miami's next league fixture is at home against DC United on October 10, a game they will need to win to keep pace at the top of the East.