Messi on target again but Miami downed by Columbus

In a recent MLS match, Lionel Messi scored a crucial equalizer for Inter Miami against Columbus Crew, but it was not enough to secure a victory. The Argentina star netted a spectacular free-kick in the 33rd minute, silencing the Columbus home crowd after Josef Martinez had put his team ahead from the penalty spot five minutes earlier. However, Messi's 21st goal of the regular season ultimately proved futile as the Crew held firm and frustrated Inter Miami for extended periods.

Messi came close to putting Miami ahead in the 62nd minute, but his shot was brilliantly saved by Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte. Later, substitute David Ayala equalized for Miami only to have the goal disallowed due to Ayala being offside by a fraction. Columbus showed their attacking prowess throughout the game, with new signing Anass Zaroury twice hitting the woodwork, including a spectacular effort that struck the underside of the crossbar.

Despite trailing by two goals late in the match, Columbus secured a win through Brais Mendez's late curling shot in the 89th minute, deflected by Miami's goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.

The defeat dealt another setback to Miami's already slim hopes of catching Nashville at the top of the Eastern Conference. The club now trail Nashville by 14 points with only seven games of the regular season remaining. Columbus, on the other hand, remain in contention for a playoff spot, currently sitting in 12th place with 29 points, four points outside the postseason places.