Inter Miami, the reigning MLS champions, continue to struggle, having secured only one victory in their last ten league matches. Their recent poor run culminated in a 2-1 defeat against Columbus Crew. Despite the team's difficulties, Lionel Messi delivered a moment of brilliance, scoring a stunning free-kick in the 33rd minute to equalize for Inter Miami. This goal came after Josef Martinez had initially given Columbus Crew the lead. However, Messi's individual effort was not enough to salvage a point for the Florida-based club, as Jamal Tiare secured Columbus Crew's win in the 98th minute. This marks Columbus Crew's first MLS victory over Inter Miami since September 2022, though they had previously beaten them in the 2024 League Cup. The crisis for Inter Miami deepens despite their star player's contributions.