Messi scored following a great assist from Rodrigo De Paul, who sent a pass between the lines to leave his Argentina teammate completely open between two defenders to fire a far-post shot into the net.

The goal arrived in the 82nd minute, lifting hope for Inter Miami, who remain on a winless streak but continue to see Lionel Messi stay effective and productive.

Inter Miami struggle for fluidity

Messi‘s involvement grew as the match progressed, largely because Inter Miami wasted possession throughout much of the game. Messi remained the squad’s clearest playmaker: before scoring his goal on a well-finished one-on-one following a top assist from Rodrigo De Paul, he orchestrated the home side’s few attacking link-ups and approaches.

Before his goal, Messi had not seen clear scoring opportunities. The team’s only other dangerous chance came when Luis Suarez inexplicably missed inside the box. However, what little creativity Inter Miami generated originated from Messi and De Paul, who provided the most support alongside him.

Toronto FC did not create much either, but moved faster in transition and capitalized on a brief surge during the match. Josh Sargent—the star of the game—struck a clean left-footed shot for the 1-0 lead before Etienne Jr. extended the margin shortly after.

Both goals arrived within three minutes, exposing the host’s lack of defensive solidity. The defensive struggles forced Messi to drop into midfield at times to receive the ball due to the lack of fluidity in building out from the back. Otherwise, he spent most of the match positioned on the right wing, leaving Suarez and Berterame as central reference points.

The Herons’ slump continues

With the result, the Herons extended their winless streak. While Inter Miami’s last victory came just 18 days ago in a 4-2 win against Atletico San Luis—a match where Messi scored two goals and provided an assist before returning home to say goodbye to his father—the club has struggled across critical MLS and Cup fixtures since.

Inter Miami are winless in their last four games across all competitions, spanning MLS and Leagues Cup play. The club suffered a 4-1 defeat to Nashville last weekend before recording a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union. The reigning MLS champions currently sit second in the Eastern Conference with 39 points and an 11-6-3 record.

Meanwhile, Toronto FC are unbeaten in their last three MLS fixtures. Toronto FC settled for a 3-3 draw at home against Charlotte FC earlier this week after Niklas Dorsch delivered a late equalizer.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup

Inter Miami will be without Tadeo Allende, Micael, Santi Morales, and Mateo Silvetti due to injury. Yannick Bright will miss the match due to suspension following his red card in the previous match against Philadelphia Union. As mentioned, Messi will be available, marking the return of German Berterame.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup: Dayne St. Clair; Sergio Reguilon, Maximilano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Ian Fray; Telasco Segovia, Casemiro, Rodrigo De Paul; German Berterame, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi.

Toronto FC confirmed lineup

Toronto FC have several players unavailable for different reasons. Niklas Dorsch, Deandre Kerr, and Jonathan Osorio are injured, and Nelson Palacio will miss the match as he goes through rehabilitation. Walker Zimmerman is suspended and will not play tonight.

Toronto predicted lineup: Luka Gavran; Richie Laryea, Zane Monlouis, Benjamin Kuscevic, Kobe Franklin; Markus Cimermancic, Alonso Coello, Derrick Etienne; Daniel Salloi, Josh Sargent, Djordje Mihailovic.

How to watch Inter Miami vs Toronto FC in the USA

Inter Miami vs Toronto FC will be available to watch in the United States through Apple TV. The service carries every MLS match in 2026 without blackouts, making it the primary streaming destination for the league this season.

Can I watch Inter Miami vs Toronto FC for free?

Eligible viewers can watch Inter Miami vs Toronto FC for free through Apple TV‘s 7-day free trial. The official U.S. Apple TV listing for the match currently displays a free-trial option, followed by a $12.99 monthly subscription.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Inter Miami return to MLS action against Toronto FC with plenty on the line in the Eastern Conference playoff race. The Herons sit second in the East with 39 points, while Toronto enters the matchup much lower in the standings (11th). Miami’s place near the top makes every home point valuable as the regular season moves toward its decisive stretch.

The biggest storyline is Inter Miami’s response after a difficult stretch. The Herons suffered a 4-1 loss to Nashville SC on August 15, then drew 2-2 against Philadelphia Union on August 19.

Lionel Messi scored against Philadelphia, which was Messi’s first goal since the passing of his father, and the result ended Miami’s three-game losing streak. Messi now has 13 MLS goals, putting him just one behind the league’s Golden Boot leader. Despite being punished by MLS for slapping Quinn Sullivan, Messi is available to play against Toronto.

Toronto FC, meanwhile, enter the fixture after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Charlotte FC on August 19. The Reds fought back despite playing with 10 men after Walker Zimmerman was sent off, with Daniel Salloi and Niklas Dorsch among the scorers. The result left Toronto with 21 points from 20 matches, keeping the club in the fight to improve its position before the final stretch of the regular season.

What time is the Inter Miami vs Toronto FC match?

The Inter Miami vs Toronto FC match kicks off on Saturday, August 22, at 7:30 PM ET. For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

• Eastern Time: 7:30 PM ET
• Central Time: 6:30 PM CT
• Mountain Time: 5:30 PM MT
• Pacific Time: 4:30 PM PT

Lionel Messi avoided a match suspension from the MLS and is expected to start against Toronto FC. With his eligibility confirmed, head coach Guillermo Hoyos will have his focal point available as Herons search for their first victory since Messi returned to the squad.

Having recently netted his first goal following the tragic passing of his father, Jorge, the Argentine legend aims to build momentum against a struggling Toronto FC side sitting near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

While FIFA recently handed down suspensions to several of his Argentina teammates following the chaotic 2026 World Cup final against Spain, Messi avoided direct sanctions, though La Albiceleste will be shorthanded during upcoming international windows.

Predicted lineups: Messi set to start

Barring any late set-backs, Messi will lead the attack alongside co-star Luis Suarez. However, Inter Miami will remain without Tadeo Allende and Yannick Bright, as both players remain sidelined with injuries.

Here is Inter Miami’s projected starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Dayne St. Clair
• Defenders: Facundo Mura, Ian Fray, Gonzalo Luján, Sergio Reguilon
• Midfielders: Casemiro, Rodrigo De Paul, Telasco Segovia, David Ayala
• Forwards: Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez

As Inter Miami prepares for this crucial fixture, a victory is essential to close the gap on Nashville SC in the Eastern Conference standings, and all eyes will once again be on Messi to deliver a game-changing performance.

According to Jose Armando Rodriguez of Deporte Total, Messi officially received a fine for the midweek incident with Sullivan. The Inter Miami captain was not the only player involved from the squad.

According to a report from the Miami Herald, teammate Ian Fray will also be fined an undisclosed amount for violating the league’s policy regarding hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent during the match. It marks a rare situation to see the Argentine star involved in such an altercation.

What happened between Messi and Sullivan?

Intensity built as the second half progressed, with Philadelphia scoring an equalizer. Inter Miami tried to find space to regain the lead, but the flow of the game led to growing frustration and multiple clashes among players.

That atmosphere set the stage for the incident between Quinn and Messi. Following an exchange between the two, the Argentine reacted by slapping the back of his opponent’s head with his open palm. The players briefly squared off before play resumed.

Another on-field altercation

Meanwhile, Cavan Sullivan was later sent off following a separate altercation, this time involving Yannick Bright during the closing minutes. However, his red card will be overturned.

According to Michelle Kaufman of the Miami Herald, a panel unanimously voted to rescind the red card, one-game suspension, and fine issued to Cavan Sullivan in the 90+12 minute, clearing him to play in the next match for Philadelphia Union.

How to watch CF Montreal vs Toronto FC in the USA

Apple TV will be the exclusive home for fans eager to watch this marquee showdown live from beginning to end.

This matchup will stream live only on Apple TV, where exclusive coverage brings every moment from kickoff to the final whistle.

Can I watch CF Montreal vs Toronto FC for free?

Viewers across the United States can watch this match live on Apple TV, which is offering a 7-day free trial for new subscribers.

The offer lets viewers enjoy the match at no initial cost before deciding whether to continue with a subscription after the free trial ends.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The playoff race heats up as two struggling Eastern Conference rivals square off in a matchup with major postseason implications.

CF Montréal and Toronto FC both enter the contest with 14 points, sitting four points behind the final Eastern Conference play-in spot, making this a must-win opportunity for each side.

With neither team able to afford dropping points against a direct competitor, expect both clubs to push for all three points in a game that could have a significant impact on the playoff race.

CF Montreal vs Toronto FC: Predicted Lineups

CF Montreal (4-3-3): Thomas Gillier; Dawid Bugaj, Efrain Morales, Brayan Vera, Luca Petrasso; Olger Escobar, Victor Loturi, Matthew Longstaff; Gennadiy Synchuk, Daniel Rios, Noah Streit.

Toronto FC (4-3-3): Luka Gavran; Jackson Gilman, Walker Zimmerman, Kobe Franklin, Nicksoen Gomis; Malik Henry, Markus Cimermancic, Alonso Coello; Daniel Salloi, Derrick Etienne Jr., Josh Sargent.

What time is the CF Montreal vs Toronto FC match?

The match kicks off today, July 16, at 7:30 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 7:30 PM
Central Time: 6:30 PM
Mountain Time: 5:30 PM
Pacific Time: 4:30 PM

With his output against Toronto FC, Messi reached 100 direct goal contributions in the MLS regular season. In doing so, he shattered Giovinco’s record to become the fastest player in league history to achieve this impressive feat.

The Italian originally set the mark in 2018, reaching 100 goal contributions in 95 matches. Messi, however, completely redefined the timeline, hitting the century mark in just 65 regular-season appearances.

Messi overtakes league legends

The Argentine superstar now sits atop a prestigious list of MLS icons. Rounding out the top three alongside Messi and Giovinco is LA Galaxy legend Robbie Keane, who reached 100 goal contributions in 96 games.

Just behind them is former LAFC talisman Carlos Vela, who hit the milestone in 98 matches. Completing the top five are Josef Martinez and Denis Bouanga, both of whom required 106 matches to reach the century mark.

A growing list of records

This latest milestone adds to an ever-growing list of accolades for Messi in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami. Since his arrival, he has become the first player to record multiple goals in four consecutive games and the first to exceed 35 goal contributions in back-to-back seasons.

Furthermore, Messi made history by becoming the first player to win the MLS MVP award in two consecutive seasons (2024 and 2025). Even as he continues his tenure in the league, the Argentine captain remains the standard-bearer for excellence, proving he is still capable of playing at an elite level.

The match began as a cagey, hard-fought affair, but Rodrigo De Paul broke the deadlock just minutes before halftime. After his initial free-kick attempt struck the wall, the Argentine midfielder pounced on the rebound and fired home to give the visitors the lead.

Toronto FC pushed for an equalizer early in the second half, but Inter Miami looked far sharper than they had in the opening period. Luis Suarez doubled the lead, finishing a clinical sequence to provide the Herons with some breathing room.

With momentum firmly on their side, Sergio Reguilon and Messi put the game out of reach, scoring back-to-back goals within a two-minute span to silence the home crowd. As a consolation for the hosts, Emilio Aristizabal managed to cut the deficit with a brace late in the game, ensuring Toronto didn’t leave the pitch empty-handed.

[Watch Toronto FC vs Inter Miami in the USA on Apple TV]

After a 4-3 loss to Orlando City SC in the latest edition of the Florida Derby, Inter Miami enter their next matchup under pressure to regain momentum in the Eastern Conference race. Lionel Messi’s team is winless in its last two matches and can’t afford many more slipups.

Standing in the way are Toronto FC, which sit eighth in the standings with 14 points and views this showdown as a major opportunity to strengthen their playoff push against a direct competitor.

When will the Toronto FC vs Inter Miami match be played?

Toronto FC take on Inter Miami this Saturday, May 9, in a 2026 MLS regular season game, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 PM (ET).

Toronto FC vs Inter Miami: Time by State in the USA

ET: 1:00 PM
CT: 12:00 PM
MT: 11:00 AM
PT: 10:00 AM

How to watch Toronto FC vs Inter Miami in the USA

Tune Apple TV to catch the 2026 MLS regular season showdown between Toronto FC and Inter Miami live in the USA.

After their dominant win over New York City FC, in which Messi scored a brace and recorded an assist, Javier Mascherano’s squad traveled to Canada looking to continue their momentum. Miami struck first before halftime, taking the early lead.

Late in the first half, Jordi Alba delivered a cross from the left that found Tadeo Allende at the far post, who outmuscled his defender and tapped the ball into the net for a 1-0 lead. In the second half, Toronto FC responded, with Djordje Mihailovic scoring the equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw.

The result is a setback for Inter Miami in their bid to win a second consecutive Supporters’ Shield, as the team had been in position to claim the title by winning all of its remaining matches.

Miami remains third in the Western Conference with 56 points. Philadelphia Union lead the standings with 60 points and a game in hand, meaning the Herons no longer control their own destiny in the race for the Supporters’ Shield this season.

What’s next for Inter Miami?

Inter Miami are in the midst of a challenging seven-game stretch, having won three of their first five matches while losing one and drawing another. Next up, the Herons will face back-to-back home games against the Chicago Fire and New England Revolution at Chase Stadium to close out this demanding run.

The regular season will conclude with two final matches: hosting Atlanta United on October 11, followed by a trip to Nashville on October 18. Miami’s primary goal remains capturing the Supporters’ Shield, but if that falls out of reach, the team will aim to finish as high as possible in the standings to secure home-field advantage for the playoffs.

Lionel Messi, fresh from a match untainted by injury or penalties, is in plein shape to take the field today against Toronto FC. For that reason, Javier Mascherano will likely feature the Argentine star in the starting lineup once again. As the season advances, the veteran star is not only the essential playmaker and scorer for the Herons but also leads the race for his first MLS Golden Boot, outpacing rivals Denis Bouanga and Sam Surridge.

Although the Herons have already secured their place in the MLS Cup Playoffs, they cannot afford complacency, as a defeat today might trigger a slump and jeopardize their momentum in the second half of the season. For this reason, head coach Javier Mascherano will aim to field his best lineup. However, he could also make strategic adjustments during the game to control the playing time of his top stars.

Toronto FC lineup vs Inter Miami

Toronto FC face a crucial game against Inter Miami, dealing with significant squad absences. Head coach Robin Fraser will be without Nicksoen Gomis, Kevin Long, Zane Monlouis, and Henry Wingo, all out due to injuries. However, the team will count on Jonathan Osorio and Djordje Mihailovic, pivotal players throughout the season. Their presence provides a much-needed boost in both strategy and morale.

With this in mind, Toronto will lineup as follows: Sean Johnson; Kosi Thompson, Sigurd Rosted, Raoul Petretta; Richie Laryea, Jonathan Osorio, Alonso Coello, Jose Cifuentes; Djordje Mihailovic, Derick Etienne, Theo Corbeanu.

Inter Miami lineup vs Toronto FC

After enduring several weeks plagued by significant absences, Inter Miami eagerly welcomes Luis Suarez back to the forward line. Additionally, the team regains the services of Telasco Segovia, who returns to action following a suspension from accumulated yellow cards. However, head coach Javier Mascherano must continue to navigate without the contributions of Allen Obando and David Ruiz.

Considering this, Inter Miami will play as follows: Oscar Ustari; Ian Fray, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Jordi Alba; Tadeo Allende, De Paul, Sergio Busquets, Baltasar Rodriguez; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.