Inter Miami lifeless without Lionel Messi in scoreless draw vs rivals Orlando City

Their first scoreless draw of the season, Inter Miami never got things going at any point in the match.

Without Lionel Messi, the Herons were lifeless. Nothing synced, all areas of the team played by themselves, not as a unit. Luis Suarez was removed early in the second half in an attempt to change momentum, but even the introduction of Leonardo Campana couldn't change anything.

It was a bleak MLS Rivalry Week match at best, but for Miami, it's not the worst outcome. They could afford a hiccup, and it's still a vital road point that they will be content with come the fall.

This was the earliest Luis Suarez has been substituted out of a match this MLS season for tactical purposes. The Uruguayan was removed in the 63rd minute.

Lionel Messi:

It's a tale old as time - your best player is your most crucial player. Without their talisman, they couldn't generate a dang thing in the attack. His 10 goals and nine assists on the night were missed, but more than anything, not having his charisma on the pitch was telling. The Argentine reeks of confidence, and everyone around him takes it in. Wednesday evening, Miami were not confident.

Luis Suarez:

With Messi not available, Suarez had an opportunity to show up and prove to the entirety of MLS that Miami is more than just their superstar Argentine. Unfortunately for him, he wasn't able to prove anything close to that. It's not a mark against the striker, but rather a reality check that he's reliant on his long-time friend.

The Herons will take on D.C. United this weekend in an Eastern Conference clash. Hopeful that Messi returns, Miami will be looking to earn another result against a playoff competitor.