Inter Miami Suffers Heavy 4-1 Defeat Against Minnesota United
St. Paul, Minnesota – Inter Miami faced a humbling 4-1 loss to Minnesota United at Allianz Field on May 10, 2025, marking one of the most challenging outings for the team since Lionel Messi joined their ranks.
Match Breakdown
First Half: Minnesota Takes Charge
Minnesota United established dominance early in the game, with Bongokuhle Hlongwane opening the scoring. The hosts capitalized on Inter Miami's defensive frailties, doubling their lead through Anthony Markanich.
Second Half: Messi's Effort Falls Short
Lionel Messi brought a glimmer of hope for Inter Miami shortly after halftime with a spectacular goal in the 48th minute, assisted by Jordi Alba. However, this moment of brilliance was quickly overshadowed as Robin Lod netted another for Minnesota, followed by an unfortunate own goal from Inter Miami’s Marcelo Weigandt.
Key Match Statistics
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Dominant Minnesota United:Minnesota United capitalized on strategic plays and defensive lapses from Inter Miami to secure a resounding victory. Goals were scored by Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Anthony Markanich, and Robin Lod, while Marcelo Weigandt contributed an unfortunate own goal to Minnesota's tally.
Despite holding a dominant 67% possession, Inter Miami struggled to translate control into opportunities. They managed 10 shots, but only 2 were on target, whereas Minnesota United converted 4 of their 8 shots into goals. This mismatch highlighted Inter Miami’s inefficiency in the final third and defensive vulnerabilities.
Lionel Messi provided a moment of brilliance for Inter Miami, scoring his fifth league goal of the season. His strike in the 48th minute, assisted by Jordi Alba, showcased his technical mastery, but it wasn’t enough to shift the momentum. -
Messi's Solo Effort:
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Statistical Breakdown:
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Possession: Inter Miami dominated with 67%, but Minnesota’s 33% proved more effective.
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Shots: Minnesota United - 8 (4 on target), Inter Miami - 10 (2 on target).
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Goals: Minnesota United - 4, Inter Miami - 1 (Messi, 48’).
Despite controlling the game on paper, Inter Miami struggled to convert possession into meaningful opportunities, highlighting inefficiencies in the final third.
Post-Match Reactions
Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami’s Head Coach, defended his team, stating, “I don’t believe we were outplayed, but we need to improve on converting chances and maintaining defensive stability.”
Messi, visibly frustrated, refrained from commenting post-match but was seen rallying his teammates, reflecting his leadership.
Minnesota United’s Manager, Adrian Heath, praised his players: “We executed our game plan flawlessly and made the most of our opportunities.”
Impact on the Season
This loss leaves Inter Miami in 4th place in the Eastern Conference standings with 21 points from 11 matches. The match exposed weaknesses in defensive organization and raised questions about the team’s reliance on Messi for attacking creativity.
Upcoming Fixtures
Inter Miami will face San Jose Earthquakes on May 14, 2025, at PayPal Park, California. The team will aim to bounce back quickly to maintain their playoff contention.
Full Match Highlights
Fans can relive the action here:
👉 Watch the Match Highlights
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