Lionel Messi missed a penalty and received a yellow card for complaining to the referee as Inter Miami suffered a 4-1 defeat against Nashville SC. The heavy loss came during Major League Soccer regular season action in the Eastern Conference.
The 39-year-old forward had an opportunity to equalize from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, but his attempt was saved by Nashville goalkeeper Brian Schwake. The miss marked Messi's third consecutive penalty failure, following missed spot kicks during the 2026 World Cup tournament with Argentina.
Messi's frustration grew throughout the match after two of his subsequent shots hit the post. The Argentine captain was eventually booked for making strong protests to the referee and sarcastically applauding his decisions on the pitch.
The 4-1 rout marked the third consecutive league defeat for Inter Miami, also known as Las Garzas. The slump follows the team's recent elimination from the Leagues Cup, extending a difficult stretch of results in domestic competition.
Match details and team slump
Inter Miami entered the match seeking to snap their losing streak, but Nashville proved clinical in front of goal. Schwake's penalty save at 22 minutes kept Nashville ahead, allowing the home side to maintain control and secure an emphatic victory.
The defeat highlights ongoing defensive struggles for Inter Miami despite a star-studded lineup. The Florida club features high-profile international talent alongside Messi, including Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez and Brazilian midfielder Casemiro.
Suárez, a long-time teammate of Messi at FC Barcelona, joined Inter Miami to bolster the attack, while former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro provides veteran experience in the central midfield.
MLS standings and upcoming fixture
Major League Soccer operates on a conference structure where regular season results determine qualification for the MLS Cup playoffs. Inter Miami compete in the Eastern Conference, where recent losses have damaged their position in the standings.
Inter Miami will return to action on Wednesday, August 19, for matchday 20 of the Eastern Conference regular season. The club will face the Philadelphia Union as they attempt to halt their three-game losing streak.
With Suárez and Casemiro playing alongside Messi, Inter Miami will look to rebound in front of their home supporters. The upcoming fixture against Philadelphia provides an immediate opportunity to turn around their midseason form.
