MLS: Messi scores, but Inter Miami held by Toronto
Inter Miami was held to a draw on their home turf by Toronto FC during the 7th round of the MLS. Despite another goal from Lionel Messi, the Floridians had to settle for a frustrating draw (1-1) against a feisty Canadian side.
In a match played at Lockhart Stadium, Javier Mascherano's squad dominated the proceedings but couldn't break down a well-organized Toronto defense.
Toronto, despite their low ranking, showed realism and resilience to leave with a valuable point.
Lionel Messi, Inter Miami's all-time top scorer!
It was during the stoppage time of the first half that everything unfolded. Federico Bernardeschi first stunned the local crowd by opening the scoring for Toronto in the 45th+2 minute.
The response was swift, with the inevitable Lionel Messi equalizing three minutes later, just before the break. The Argentine genius thus becomes Inter Miami's all-time top scorer with 44 goals. Video:
In the second half, Inter Miami launched multiple attacks but was thwarted by a solid and disciplined block.
This result slows the Floridian club's progress, now 4th in the overall standings with 14 points, and 2nd in the East. Toronto, on the other hand, remains stuck at the bottom of the table in 28th place overall.