Inter Miami's season is at a critical juncture after a painful late defeat at Columbus Crew, a result that exposed real defensive fragility at the worst possible moment. The Herons lost 2-1 at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, with substitute Santiago Morales picking up a quickfire double booking in stoppage time to reduce the side to ten men, and Jamal Thiare immediately punishing the numerical disadvantage with a winner deep into added time. The manner of the defeat was particularly damaging, given that Messi had pulled Miami level in the 33rd minute and the team had controlled possession for much of the match.

The result leaves Miami third in the Eastern Conference on 46 points from 27 games, level with second-placed New England Revolution but separated by goal difference, and just three points clear of Charlotte FC in fourth. The margin for error in the final stretch of the regular season is thin, and the late capitulation at Columbus will do little for confidence heading into the run-in.

Adding to the club's complex week, Messi has been absent on international duty, joining the Argentina camp ahead of his historic farewell appearance against Benin. The emotional weight of that occasion is considerable, and Miami will be monitoring their star carefully on his return. Next up is a home fixture against DC United on October 10 at Nu Stadium, a game the Herons will be expected to win as they look to steady their push for a top-two finish.