Columbus, September 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Lionel Messi scored a spectacular free kick but Inter Miami CF suffered a 2-1 defeat against Columbus Crew in their MLS regular-season fixture at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on Monday.
Columbus took the lead in the 28th minute after converting a penalty. Inter Miami responded just five minutes later when Messi found the net from a difficult angle on the right side of the pitch with a superb free kick.
The goal took Messi’s league tally to 21 and extended his lead in the 2026 MLS Golden Boot race.
Columbus regained the advantage late in the match, scoring in stoppage time to secure all three points and hand Miami their fifth defeat of the regular season.
The match also saw the Inter Miami debut of recently signed Brazilian winger Riquelme Fillipi. He came on in the 71st minute, replacing Facundo Mura.
Inter Miami have now recorded 12 wins, five defeats and 10 draws from 27 regular-season matches, giving them 46 points and third place in the Eastern Conference.
Messi, the reigning MLS MVP and Golden Boot winner, continues to lead the league in scoring and is also tied for the assists lead with 13.
Columbus entered the match after a 2-0 away victory over CF Montreal last weekend. The Ohio-based side now have eight wins, 14 defeats and five draws for 29 points, leaving them 13th in the Eastern Conference.
Inter Miami will next return home to face D.C. United at Nu Stadium on October 11.
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