Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Lionel Messi has consistently shown why he’s considered the greatest of all time. With more than 40 goals and over 20 assists across all competitions in under 50 matches, he has had a transformative impact on Major League Soccer. Along the way, Messi has collected silverware such as the Leagues Cup and the Supporters’ Shield, proving that even late into his career, his competitive fire remains as fierce as ever.
Still, even the most dominant player can’t find the net against every opponent. As of now, there are seven MLS clubs Messi has played but hasn’t scored against — a rare statistic that stands out in his otherwise stellar American chapter. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether he can change that before his contract runs out in December.
From tightly contested draws to rare defeats, these matches tell a story of tactical matchups, timing, and the unpredictable nature of football. The list includes clubs from both the Eastern and Western Conferences, each posing unique challenges. Among the many who track Messi’s performances in the MLS, the insights offered by Melbet gh are often used by football followers who want deeper statistical context. Read on until the end — there’s a special bonus waiting for readers, including a promo code from Melbet.com.gh that boosts the welcome bonus when creating a new account.
New York City FC
Despite playing twice against NYCFC, Messi has yet to score. Both matches ended in draws, though he did register two assists. The New York-based club has a storied history, having once featured legends like David Villa and Andrea Pirlo, and continues to play a technical style that tends to suppress individual brilliance.
Their mid-table status this season has made them a wildcard. They remain disciplined at the back, especially in matches where Messi is the focal point. The next encounter is set for later in the season, and will provide him another chance to break the deadlock.
Real Salt Lake City
Real Salt Lake stands as one of the more curious entries on this list. The two teams met only once so far, in a Leagues Cup clash that ended in an Inter Miami win. Messi did notch an assist, but couldn’t find the back of the net.
Part of the challenge lies in scheduling. As a Western Conference team, Real Salt Lake is rarely pitted against Miami. Their high-altitude home advantage and structured midfield made it hard for Messi to dictate play as usual. With no more matches currently scheduled, this could be one that remains unfinished business.
CF Montreal
Montreal has already faced Messi once, with Inter Miami emerging victorious. However, the Argentine didn’t score in that clash. Two more games are on the calendar this season, offering fresh opportunities to correct that anomaly.
The Canadian side is currently struggling near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. While their defensive record hasn’t impressed, Montreal has managed to hold off elite strikers in isolated matches. With Alphonso Davies and Didier Drogba having passed through this club’s ranks in previous years, their footballing culture runs deeper than recent form suggests.
FC Cincinnati
Of the seven teams, Cincinnati is the only one to defeat Messi’s Miami. That match stands out not just for the result, but for how effectively Cincinnati neutralized Inter Miami’s attack.
Two more fixtures between these sides are slated for July, offering Messi a swift shot at redemption. Cincinnati, currently among the top three in the Eastern Conference, is considered a serious contender this year. How Messi responds in the rematches could have playoff implications down the line.
Los Angeles FC
LAFC met Messi once in 2023, and although Miami won 3-1 and Messi recorded two assists, he didn’t score. This game showcased LAFC’s openness, which Messi exploited with creative playmaking rather than finishing.
The team features a few players familiar to European fans, including Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris, giving their roster a touch of top-tier experience. Yet, with no rematch on the books this season, it may take another inter-conference tournament for Messi to get another shot at this opponent.
D.C. United
D.C. United faced Messi’s Inter Miami and were defeated by a stoppage-time winner—not from Messi, but from teammate Leonardo Campana. That night, D.C. managed to keep Messi scoreless, even as Miami secured all three points.
The clubs are scheduled to meet again in August and September. With D.C. conceding an average of nearly two goals per game, Messi will likely see these as strong chances to add another name to his long list of victims.
Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire hosted Messi for the first time earlier this season in a goalless draw. Despite Miami’s possession dominance, the match yielded few real chances, and Messi’s presence was largely contained.
The return fixture is planned for the end of August. If Chicago’s form remains inconsistent, Messi will be backed by many to get on the scoresheet in that meeting.
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Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s influence on Major League Soccer is undeniable. His combination of vision, balance, and precise execution has lifted Inter Miami to new heights and raised the league’s profile globally. Yet, even he faces roadblocks in the form of organized defences and one-off tactical duels.
The seven clubs listed above each tell a different story of why even a generational talent like Messi doesn’t always make the scoresheet. Whether it’s through limited matchups, smart defending, or sheer chance, these anomalies provide added intrigue to an already compelling career.
As Messi enters the final months of his Inter Miami contract, the spotlight remains intense. Each upcoming fixture will be watched not just for team implications, but to see if Messi can erase the last few blanks on his MLS goalsheet.
