Messi on target again but Miami downed by Columbus

Lionel Messi's equalizing strike proved insufficient as Inter Miami suffered a 2-1 loss to Columbus Crew in an MLS match on Sunday. The Argentine sensation created the opening goal for Columbus with a precise free-kick in the 33rd minute, following Josef Martinez's penalty in the previous five minutes. However, Messi's 21st goal of the season was not enough to secure a win, as Columbus' defensive efforts held strong throughout the game.

The Miami substitute David Ayala came close to turning the game around in the 62nd minute by shooting past Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte, but the goal was disallowed for being offside. Columbus' Moroccan newcomer Anass Zaroury twice hit the woodwork, including a spectacular long-range effort that struck the underside of the bar.

Despite the close calls, the match remained tense until the final moments, when Columbus' Brais Mendez scored a late winner. Senegalese substitute Jamal Thiare tapped in Mendez's curling shot from outside the box to wrap up the victory for Columbus.

The defeat significantly impacted Miami's chances of catching Nashville in the Eastern Conference standings. The Marlins currently trail the leaders by 14 points with only seven regular-season games remaining. Columbus, on the other hand, remains in contention for a playoff spot, currently sitting in 12th place with 29 points – four behind the postseason positions.