Lionel Messi Scores 101st Goal as Inter Miami Settles for Draw with San Diego FC

Messi Hits 101 Goals, But Inter Miami Faces Frustration in MLS Draw

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez both found the net for Inter Miami, yet defensive mistakes cost them a win as they drew 2-2 against San Diego FC in Major League Soccer.

Messi’s Milestone Goal Can't Secure Victory

Messi continued his remarkable form by scoring his 101st goal for Inter Miami with a signature free-kick. This strike canceled out an early goal from Anders Dreyer. Later, Suarez seemed to have clinched the match for Miami with a 74th-minute goal. However, Dreyer struck again late in the game to deny Miami all three points, leaving the match tied at 2-2 in Florida.

This result marks Miami's fourth straight draw in the league. For new coach Kily Gonzalez, the match was a frustrating league debut. The team sits third in the Eastern Conference, trailing leaders Nashville by 11 points.

Gonzalez Criticizes Defensive Lapses

Despite the attacking flair of Messi and Suarez, Gonzalez expressed strong dissatisfaction with his team’s defensive errors. He appeared visibly frustrated after Dreyer took advantage of a ball played over Miami's defense.

"We've only been here for four days and haven’t had proper training. Defensively, we must be much stronger," Gonzalez said, according to ESPN."We can’t keep making these defensive mistakes; they cost us dearly. That final moment should never have happened. It feels strange to be so close to winning and almost lose. Our goalkeeper’s save was the only thing that kept us from defeat."

Signs of Complacency After Recent Success

Messi’s stunning goal was his 20th league tally this season and his eighth free-kick since joining MLS in 2023. It came shortly after he reached 100 goals for the club during their Campeones Cup win over Cruz Azul. Yet, Gonzalez hinted that recent victories may have dulled his players’ focus.

"The Campeones Cup win might have subconsciously affected us, especially in the first half, leading to some complacency," the manager admitted."At this club, where winning every game is expected, we need to step up. On the plus side, there were good moments, but I must tighten up the defense because that remains my biggest concern."

Looking Ahead: Miami’s Next Challenge

Inter Miami will face Columbus Crew away next Sunday, aiming to break their streak of draws and narrow the gap at the top of the table. Meanwhile, San Diego FC travel to play Austin FC on Saturday.

• Major League Soccer: Austin FC vs San Diego FC – 27 Sept 2026, 03:30
• Major League Soccer: Columbus Crew vs Inter Miami – 28 Sept 2026, 02:00