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In a potentially significant victory on Wednesday, September 20, Inter Miami triumphed 4-0 over Toronto FC. However, the resounding win was marred by concerns over the health of Miami's top players, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, who exited the match prematurely due to suspected injuries.
Both Messi and Alba departed the pitch without any apparent accidents, but there were evident signs of discomfort related to their lower bodies. The double injury blow happened within a short span - Alba left the game in the 35th minute, followed closely by Messi's exit two minutes later.
Gerardo Martino, Miami's coach, had benched both players in the prior weekend match, attributing their absence to "muscle fatigue." This proactive move aimed to maintain their fitness amidst Miami's jam-packed schedule, especially with the impending U.S. Open Cup final on the horizon.
Statistically, Messi's presence has been monumental for Miami. They have remained undefeated in all 12 competitions with Messi, showcasing a stellar 3-0-1 record in regular-season fixtures.
On the opposing side, Toronto FC had its share of injury woes, with both Victor Vazquez and Brandon Servania leaving the field in the game's opening 26 minutes. This series of early disruptions led to an extended first-half, with an additional nine minutes. It was during this added time that Facundo Farias netted his third season goal.
Robert Taylor, who came in as Messi's replacement, turned out to be the star of the match. Showcasing supreme ball skills, Taylor scored twice – once in the 54th minute and later, with the help of a Farias chip-pass, in the 87th minute. In addition to his personal tally, Taylor set up Benjamin Cremaschi's goal in the 73rd minute. For the young 18-year-old Cremaschi, it marked his second season goal.
Miami's goalkeeper, Drake Callender, fortified their lead by securing his fifth clean sheet of the campaign. He received a little assistance from the goal framework, with both Lorenzo Insigne and Deandre Kerr of Toronto FC striking the posts during their attempts.
Concluding on a sobering note for Toronto FC, they retain the undesirable tag of being the only Major League Soccer team this season without an away victory.
In the grand scheme of things, while Miami will celebrate their win, the potential loss of Messi and Alba could be a severe blow to their championship aspirations. The football community eagerly awaits updates on their condition.
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