Lionel Messi Scores as Inter Miami Lose 2–1 to Columbus Crew in MLS 2026
Lionel Messi's stunning 21st goal of the season couldn't save Inter Miami from a dramatic 2-1 defeat against Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field on September 27, 2026. The late-game loss extends Miami's MLS winless run to five matches, pushing them down to third in the Eastern Conference, while Columbus secured a vital victory in their playoff push.
Inter Miami's struggles continued as a 99th-minute winner from Jamal Thiare condemned them to a dramatic 2-1 defeat against Columbus Crew on Sunday, September 27, 2026. Despite a sensational free-kick from superstar Lionel Messi, which marked his 21st league goal of the season, the loss extends Miami's Major League Soccer winless run to five games and sees them slide to third in the Eastern Conference table. Lionel Messi Goal Video: Inter Miami Star Scores Stunning Free-Kick Against San Diego FC in MLS 2026.
Inter Miami Lose 1-2
Full time in Columbus. pic.twitter.com/I33p0uVCXP
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 28, 2026
The match, held at Lower.com Field, saw Columbus Crew take the lead just before the half-hour mark. Josef Martinez converted a penalty after being brought down inside the box following a corner kick. However, Inter Miami quickly responded, with Messi restoring parity just five minutes later. The Argentine maestro curled a magnificent free-kick from a wide angle on the right directly into the far corner of the net, showcasing his enduring brilliance.
Late Drama and Red Card Seals Miami's Fate
The game appeared destined for a draw until a chaotic period in stoppage time. Six minutes into added time, Inter Miami's Santiago Morales was sent off after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession – within just three minutes of each other. Playing with ten men, Miami's defense eventually buckled under pressure. Three minutes after the red card, Columbus goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo spilled a seemingly tame shot and Thiare was on hand to sweep in the decisive goal in the 99th minute, securing a vital victory for the home side.
Form Guide and League Standings
This defeat, following four consecutive draws, means Inter Miami have not secured a league victory since the end of August and have only one win in their last ten MLS outings. The result caused Inter Miami to drop to third in the Eastern Conference standings, having been in a higher position before the match. Meanwhile, Columbus Crew secured a vital victory that bolstered their playoff aspirations. Lionel Messi Fined by MLS for Slapping Philadelphia Union’s Quinn Sullivan During Inter Miami’s 2–2 Draw.
Head-to-Head: Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew
Inter Miami and Columbus Crew have a history of competitive encounters in Major League Soccer.
Inter Miami will now look to regroup quickly as they aim to snap their frustrating winless streak and reclaim momentum in a competitive Eastern Conference, while Columbus Crew will be buoyed by this crucial late victory in their pursuit of a playoff berth.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2026 10:52 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
