Inter Miami’s impressive five-game winning streak came to an end with a 3-0 loss to FC Cincinnati. Javier Mascherano admitted that the team’s fatigue from a demanding schedule contributed to their struggles, with Messi’s scoring streak also ending. Miami now needs to regroup ahead of their upcoming match against NY Red Bulls.
Inter Miami’s impressive run came to a sudden halt as they were beaten 3-0 by FC Cincinnati, with Javier Mascherano admitting that fatigue played a significant part in their disappointing performance. The loss ended a five-game winning streak in MLS and saw Lionel Messi’s remarkable scoring streak come to an end.
Inter Miami faced an uphill battle against FC Cincinnati, who dominated the match from start to finish. The Herons struggled to match the intensity of their opponents, and Mascherano’s side was clearly fatigued after a grueling schedule that included MLS matches, the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the Club World Cup, and the upcoming Leagues Cup.
“We were second-best today, no question about it,” Mascherano said in his post-match comments. “From the opening minutes, we struggled to win our duels. Physically, we’re carrying a heavy load, and eventually that shows. Unfortunately, we couldn’t deliver the performance we wanted.”
Cincinnati’s defensive strategy focused heavily on limiting Messi’s influence, with the Argentine superstar playing 90 minutes in each of his last 11 MLS matches, in addition to his commitments in the Club World Cup and Champions Cup. Despite his recent form, Messi was unable to find the back of the net, ending a streak of five consecutive games with a brace.
“They pressed us hard from the start. We never found our rhythm, we weren’t sharp or mentally clear, and they took full advantage. It’s worrying when we lose this way, when the other team dominates from start to finish,” Mascherano admitted.
While the match was largely one-sided, Miami did show some signs of life after going 2-0 down. There was a brief surge in the second half, and they nearly found a way back into the game.
“That moment could’ve shifted the momentum and given us a spark,” Mascherano reflected. “But it didn’t happen. The result, and especially the way it played out, is concerning. Now we need to reset.”
While Messi’s scoring streak was snapped, his overall impact remains undeniable, with 16 goals in 17 MLS appearances. However, the team’s reliance on his brilliance has been evident, and without his usual magic, the cracks in Miami’s game were exposed.
Meanwhile, Luis Suárez, who joined the team with high expectations, is struggling to find his form. The Uruguayan striker is now on a five-game scoring drought across MLS and the Club World Cup, adding to the team’s challenges.
Inter Miami’s loss to Cincinnati serves as a wake-up call for Mascherano and his squad, especially as they look to reset ahead of their upcoming match against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday. As the club sits fifth in the Eastern Conference, it’s clear that Miami will need to address their fatigue issues and regain their sharpness to continue their push up the table.
