In a dominant performance on July 16, 2025, FC Cincinnati dismantled Inter Miami, snapping Miami’s six-game unbeaten streak and reigniting the Eastern Conference race.
The 3–0 rout featured a powerful brace from Evander and was highlighted by a shutout of Lionel Messi.
Match Breakdown
- Opening goal (16′): Gerardo “Dado” Valenzuela delivered with a composed left-footed strike, set up by Luca Orellano’s clever pass. A confident opener that set the tone.
- Evander’s brace (50′ & 70′): The Brazilian midfielder struck twice—on a poacher’s tap-in and a clinical finish—to become the first player in club history to score in five consecutive MLS games.
- Clean sheet: Roman Celentano’s composed goalkeeping ensured Inter Miami failed to breach Cincinnati’s defense—a rare shutout against a Messi-led side.
Key Highlights & Stats
- The win elevates Cincinnati to 45 points (14‑6‑3), securing 2nd place in the Eastern Conference.
- Inter Miami drops to 38 points (11‑4‑5), their scoring run halted and their dominance questioned.
- Evander, the hero of the day, now has 15 MLS goals, trailing only Messi and Sam Surridge.
Post-Match Reactions
- Javier Mascherano admitted fatigue plagued his squad: “We were outclassed from start to finish… physically drained by continuous competitions.”
- Pat Noonan, Cincinnati’s coach, praised his team’s resilience and game management: “They communicated the right things” throughout.
Tactical Takeaways
- Cincinnati’s press made the difference, disrupting Miami’s build-up and eliminating Messi’s creativity.
- Midfield dominance: Bucha and Orellano orchestrated tempo and space for the attacks that led to all three goals.
- Evander’s clinical finishing underlines his emerging status as one of MLS’ top performing midfielders.
What’s Next
- Inter Miami heads to face New York RB on Saturday and will return to Cincinnati on July 26 for a rematch, followed by their Leagues Cup debut vs. Atlas (July 30).
- Cincinnati travels to Real Salt Lake on July 19, aiming to build on their momentum.
- With rematches and knockout competitions looming, both teams have much to prove.
Let me know if you’d like post-match infographics, deep tactical breakdowns, or player interviews next!
FOR MORE BLOGS – beyondthepunchlines.com
Author: Team BTP
Add to favorites
