Kenya Sport

Lionel Messi Scores 101st Goal as Inter Miami Settles for Draw Against San Diego FC

Lionel Messi continued his impressive scoring streak by netting his 101st goal for Inter Miami, yet the team had to settle for a 2-2 draw with San Diego FC in their recent MLS clash. Despite goals from both Messi and Luis Suarez, defensive lapses prevented Miami from securing a victory.

Match Highlights

  • Early Lead: Anders Dreyer put San Diego FC ahead early in the match.
  • Messi’s Response: The Argentine star curled in a trademark free-kick to level the score.
  • Suarez’s Goal: Luis Suarez appeared to clinch the win for Miami with a goal in the 74th minute.
  • Dreyer’s Late Equalizer: Dreyer completed his brace late, denying Miami the three points.

This result marks Inter Miami’s fourth straight draw in Major League Soccer, leaving them third in the Eastern Conference and 11 points behind leaders Nashville.

Manager Kily Gonzalez’s Frustration

Newly appointed manager Kily Gonzalez expressed his disappointment about the team's defensive mistakes. He was visibly frustrated as Dreyer capitalized on a ball over Miami’s defense, which led to the equalizer.

"We've only been here four days and haven't been able to train properly. Defensively, we need to improve a lot," Gonzalez told ESPN. "We can't make these defensive errors; they come at a high cost. That last situation should never have happened. It's surreal to be so close to winning and nearly lose the game. Our goalkeeper saved us from defeat."

Signs of Complacency?

Messi’s goal, his 20th league strike of the season and eighth from a free-kick since joining MLS in 2023, came shortly after he surpassed 100 goals for the club during the Campeones Cup win over Cruz Azul. Gonzalez hinted that this success may have led to some lack of focus among the players.

"I think the Campeones Cup might have had an unconscious effect, especially in the first half, leading to some complacency," Gonzalez admitted. "At this club, where winning every match is expected, we must step up. On the bright side, we did some good things, but I need to work on our defense because that worries me the most."

Upcoming Fixtures

Inter Miami will look to break their streak of draws when they visit Columbus Crew next Sunday. Meanwhile, San Diego FC will travel to face Austin FC on Saturday.

  • MLS Fixtures:
  • Austin FC vs San Diego FC: 27 Sept 2026, 03:30
  • Columbus Crew vs Inter Miami CF: 28 Sept 2026, 02:00

Related Articles