Inter Miami's momentum has taken a hit after a 2-0 defeat away to Red Bull New York on Saturday, ending a three-game winning streak and raising questions about the squad's depth without their talisman at full throttle. Lionel Messi started on the bench, a decision manager Kily González confirmed was planned in advance following the Argentine's whirlwind trip to Oviedo, Spain, where he collected the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The travel, time zone changes, and quick turnaround left González unwilling to risk his star player from the start, with a midweek fixture against FC Cincinnati already on the horizon. Messi entered the game in the second half and improved Miami's play, but his teammates could not convert the chances created, and a late Emil Forsberg goal sealed the result for the hosts. It was the first match in 13 consecutive games for club and country in which Messi failed to score or assist. Beyond the individual streak, González was openly critical of his team's midfield performance, pointing to too many turnovers and an inability to build from deep. Miami remain third in the Eastern Conference on 55 points, level with second-placed New England Revolution, so the playoff seeding picture is still very much alive. They host FC Cincinnati at Nu Stadium on Wednesday, and a response is needed quickly if they are to protect their standing before the regular season closes.