- Tadeo Allende scores twice, salvaging a draw for Inter Miami.
- Messi’s MLS Bay Area debut ends in frustration with a late yellow card.
- Earthquakes maintain unbeaten streak as Messi narrowly misses game-winner.
In a thrilling 3-3 draw against the San Jose Earthquakes, Inter Miami’s Tadeo Allende shone with two goals. He scored a crucial equalizer in the 52nd minute set up by Lionel Messi.
Despite being a prominent presence throughout the match, Messi’s frustration boiled over in stoppage time. A missed chance to secure the game-winner was followed by a controversial no-call tackle outside the box. This led to Messi arguing with the referee and receiving a yellow card.
Tension and Drama: Messi’s First Bay Area MLS Match Ends in Heated Draw
Lionel Messi’s first MLS appearance in the Bay Area was highly anticipated. Thousands of fans lined up hours before kickoff to catch a glimpse of the global icon. The spectacle continued off the pitch with block parties and fan gatherings. However, it was Tadeo Allende who stole the show on the field. He scored two goals that kept Inter Miami in the game.
The game started with a bang, as Maximiliano Falcon headed in a Jordi Alba cross just 35 seconds after kickoff. This gave Miami an early lead. San Jose quickly regrouped, with Cristian Arango and Beau Leroux finding the net before halftime. Messi had a chance to equalize with a free kick just outside the box but narrowly missed.
Miami’s struggles in defense were evident once again. They have now conceded at least three goals in three of their last four matches. Despite Messi’s playmaking efforts, the team continues to struggle in preventing goals. This highlights the need for defensive adjustments.
A heated stoppage time saw Messi miss a close-range shot that could have secured a dramatic win for Miami. Moments later, he was brought down just outside the box with no foul called. This resulted in a heated exchange with the referee and a yellow card. San Jose coach Bruce Arena quickly intervened, escorting Messi away to avoid a potential red card.
Messi’s MLS Bay Area debut showcased moments of brilliance and frustration. Miami continues to seek defensive stability and capitalize on their star’s playmaking abilities.
“He was obviously not happy, and I wanted to make sure he wasn’t going to get a red card.” — Bruce Arena, San Jose Earthquakes coach.
