Lionel Messi was on target once again, but his goal wasn’t enough to secure three points as Inter Miami were held to a 1-1 draw by Toronto FC in a lively MLS encounter on Sunday.
Despite dominating possession and chances, Inter Miami were left frustrated as Toronto’s resilience and an inspired performance from goalkeeper Sean Johnson denied them victory at home.
Italian midfielder Federico Bernardeschi opened the scoring for the visitors with a stylish finish midway through the first half. The goal came after a well-worked move involving fellow Italian Lorenzo Insigne, who fed Bernardeschi with a clever ball into the box. Bernardeschi calmly slotted it home to silence the home crowd at Chase Stadium.
However, Inter Miami responded with intent and flair. Messi, who had been relatively quiet in the opening minutes, found the back of the net in the 37th minute. After receiving a pass from Telasco Segovia, the Argentine maestro took a sharp touch, spun on a dime, and rifled a low shot past Johnson to level the match. The goal was Messi’s fifth of the season and another reminder of his enduring brilliance.
Despite continued pressure and over 65% possession, Inter Miami couldn’t break down Toronto’s defense in the second half. Johnson was the hero for the visitors, making a total of nine saves, several of them from point-blank range, to preserve the draw.
The result sees Inter Miami remain second in the MLS Eastern Conference with 14 points from six matches, just one point behind leaders Columbus Crew, who have played an extra game. The draw, though disappointing for the hosts, keeps them well within reach of the top spot.
Toronto, on the other hand, remain near the bottom of the standings in 14th place, with just three points so far this season. Still, the performance was a morale booster for a team struggling to find form.
Inter Miami will now turn their attention to their next match, where they’ll aim to return to winning ways and continue their push for the top spot in the East.