Lionel Messi scores stunning free-kick but Inter Miami suffer costly defeat
Columbus, 28 September 2026
Despite Lionel Messi’s brilliant free-kick equaliser, Inter Miami’s playoff hopes crumbled further following a late 2-1 defeat to Columbus Crew, marking just one win in ten matches.
The Drama in Columbus
On Sunday, 27 September 2026, ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus became the stage for a highly competitive Major League Soccer (MLS) clash that ended in a dramatic 2-1 victory for Columbus Crew over Inter Miami [1][2]. The match, which kicked off at 19:00 US Eastern Time, immediately captured the attention of football enthusiasts worldwide, including the vibrant youth in the Kakuma and Kalobeyei refugee camps who follow international leagues closely for recreation and social connection [1][2][GPT]. The game burst into life in the 28th minute when Columbus forward Josef Martinez fired his side ahead from the penalty spot [1].
Messi’s Magic and Miami’s Pursuit
Just five minutes after Martinez’s opener, Argentina superstar Lionel Messi responded with a moment of pure individual brilliance [1]. In the 33rd minute, Messi curled a superb free-kick past the Columbus wall to equalise, marking his 21st goal of the regular season [1]. This spectacular goal briefly silenced the home crowd and gave hope to Miami, who entered the fixture seeking to improve on a difficult run that has seen them win only one of their last ten MLS matches [1][3].
A Tactical Battle of Inches
The second half saw both sides push relentlessly for a winner, showcasing immense athletic talent and cooperation on the pitch [1]. In the 62nd minute, Messi looked set to put Miami ahead with a powerful run and shot, but Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte made a vital tip-over save [1]. Moments later, Miami substitute David Ayala found the net, but the celebrations were cut short as the goal was chalked off for a fractional offside [1]. Columbus also threatened, with new Moroccan signing Anass Zaroury twice hitting the woodwork, including a spectacular long-range effort that struck the underside of the crossbar [1].
Late Stoppage-Time Deciser
The match appeared destined for a draw until deep into stoppage time when Columbus Crew seized their moment [1]. Brais Mendez unleashed a curling shot from the edge of the box, which Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo failed to secure [1]. Senegalese substitute Jamal Thiare reacted with lightning speed, lashing home the close-range rebound to secure a 2-1 victory for Columbus [1]. The dramatic finish sparked wild celebrations, highlighting how football unites players from diverse backgrounds, such as Senegal and Morocco, to achieve collective success on the pitch [1][GPT].
Playoff Implications and Global Resonance
For Inter Miami, the defeat is a severe blow to their Eastern Conference aspirations, leaving them 14 points behind leaders Nashville with only 7 regular-season games remaining, representing a maximum of 21 potential points left to play for [1]. Meanwhile, Columbus Crew’s dramatic win keeps them firmly in the hunt for a playoff berth [1]. They currently sit in 12th position with 29 points, leaving them just 4 points away from the postseason places [1]. This intense competitive struggle continues to fuel lively debates and passion among football communities globally, from the stadiums of Ohio to the communal viewing spaces in Kakuma [1][GPT].