Photo via CBS Sports

Inter Miami's MLS Cup credentials take hit with midfield problems that are too big for Lionel Messi to solve

Inter Miami suffered a 2-0 loss to Red Bull New York, who currently hold the final playoff spot with three matches remaining. Despite controlling 65.9% of possession with 86.3% of 714 passes and 906 touches, Miami's efforts were disjointed.

An early own goal by Casemiro gave the home side the lead, following a play initiated by 17-year-old Adri Mehmeti, who outperformed Rodrigo de Paul.

Messi entered the match in the 56th minute after recently receiving the Princess of Asturias award for sport in Oviedo, Spain. Coach Cristian "Kily" Gonzalez criticized the team's slow build-up and frequent midfield turnovers that left them spread too thin.

He noted that the team failed to maintain their usual style of play and struggled with passes played behind their defensive lines.

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