FC Cincinnati - Inter Miami CF
The MLS clash between FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami on May 14, 2026, delivered a masterclass in attacking football and dramatic momentum shifts. Both sides displayed incredible tactical energy from the start, setting the stage for a contest that would keep fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second.
A Tightly Contested Opening Half
The scoring opened in the 24th minute when Lionel Messi found the back of the net to give Inter Miami an early lead. FC Cincinnati responded with aggressive play, forcing the visitors into defensive errors that saw Ian Fray and Gonzalo Lujan pick up yellow cards. The home side's persistence paid off just before the break; in the 41st minute, Kevin Denkey stepped up to the penalty spot and coolly converted, ensuring both teams headed into the tunnels level.
Non-Stop Action in the Second Period
The second half ignited immediately as Pavel Bucha put FC Cincinnati ahead in the 49th minute following a precise assist from Bryan Ramirez. However, the lead was short-lived as Lionel Messi struck again in the 55th minute, teed up by Rodrigo De Paul to make it 2-2. The pendulum swung back toward the hosts in the 64th minute when Evander Ferreira finished a move started by Denkey, restoring Cincinnati's advantage and briefly silencing the travelling support.
The Late Inter Miami Surge
As the clock ticked toward the final whistle, Inter Miami found another gear. Substitute Mateo Silvetti, replacing Luis Suarez, made an instant impact by scoring the equalizer in the 79th minute thanks to a Messi assist. The momentum stayed with the visitors, and in the 84th minute, German Berterame put Miami back in front. A devastating own goal by goalkeeper Roman Celentano in the 89th minute compounded Cincinnati's woes. Despite extensive stoppage time and a late yellow card for Evander, the visitors held firm to secure a remarkable victory.
