Sat May 10 21:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Messi’s Goal Not Enough as Inter Miami Routingly Defeated by Minnesota United
**ST. PAUL, MN** – Lionel Messi scored his fifth MLS goal of the season, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Inter Miami from suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat at the hands of Minnesota United on Saturday. The loss marks Inter Miami’s most lopsided defeat in any game featuring Messi.
Goals from Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Anthony Markanich, and Robin Lod, along with an own goal by Miami’s Marcelo Weigandt, sealed the victory for Minnesota, who now boast back-to-back wins. Hlongwane opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, expertly finishing a pass from Carlos Harvey. Markanich doubled the lead just before halftime with a close-range header.
Messi pulled one back for Miami early in the second half, expertly slotting a cross from Jordi Alba past the goalkeeper. However, Minnesota quickly regained their three-goal advantage with Weigandt’s own goal, followed by Lod’s first goal of the season.
Inter Miami were missing key players Luis Suárez (personal reasons) and Fafà Picault (illness). Despite Messi’s goal, the team’s overall performance couldn’t overcome Minnesota’s strong showing. The win moves Minnesota to 22 points on the season, one point ahead of Inter Miami.
First Piper 