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Inter Miami and San Jose Earthquakes delivered a high-octane battle at PayPal Park on May 14. Despite six total goals, neither team found a winner. Lionel Messi played a key role in Inter Miami’s comeback but couldn’t lead his team to victory. The match ended 3-3, adding a much-needed point for Inter Miami, who had lost four of their previous five outings.
Lightning-Fast Start Stuns Fans
The action started immediately. Just 30 seconds in, Inter Miami’s Maxi Falcon headed in a goal from Jordi Alba’s cross. However, San Jose didn’t wait to respond. Cristian Arango capitalized on a defensive error in the third minute to level the score.
Midfield Fireworks Continue
By the 37th minute, San Jose’s rookie Beau Leroux gave his team a 2-1 lead. Inter Miami pushed forward and found their equalizer in the 44th minute. Messi sparked the play by setting up Alba, who crossed perfectly to Tadeo Allende for the finish.
Just before halftime, San Jose struck again. Ian Harkes fired a low left-footed shot into the net during first-half stoppage time, putting San Jose back in front at 3-2.
Second Half Belongs to Allende
Inter Miami opened the second half aggressively. Rookie Baltasar Rodriguez, making his MLS debut, linked with Messi in the 52nd minute. His assist found Allende, who calmly slotted home his second of the night, making it 3-3.
This was Allende’s first brace since joining the club and his first goal since March 9.
Messi’s Magic Falls Just Short
The Argentine legend had several opportunities late in the game. A curling free kick before halftime missed the mark. In the closing minutes, Messi tried to break the deadlock with a header and a pair of long-range shots. None found the net.
His frustration peaked after a possible foul went uncalled. Messi confronted head referee Joe Dickerson after the final whistle. The interaction ended with Dickerson showing Messi a yellow card and telling him, “Walk away now.”
San Jose Loses Key Player Mid-Match
Cristian Arango, San Jose’s top scorer with eight goals this season, left the match injured in the 26th minute. He appeared to tweak his hamstring and was subbed off shortly after. His absence was noticeable in San Jose’s second-half performance.
Mixed Emotions for Inter Miami
Despite missing out on three points, Inter Miami showed grit. They were outscored 14-9 in their last five matches and badly needed a positive result. Coach Javier Mascherano will be relieved to see his side earn a draw, especially on the road.
What’s Next for Messi and Miami
Inter Miami returns home for a heated in-state rivalry match against Orlando City on May 18 at 7 p.m. ET. With momentum from this draw, they’ll look to get back to winning ways. Messi will be hungry to score again after narrowly missing out in San Jose.
Final Thoughts
The 3-3 draw between Inter Miami and San Jose Earthquakes was an emotional rollercoaster. Messi played creator, Allende shined with two goals, and controversy added drama at the end. Both teams had moments of brilliance, but neither could grab the winner. As Inter Miami aims to climb back to form, all eyes remain on Messi’s next move.
