Inter Miami Player Ratings: Messi Misses Penalty as Toklomati Shines

Inter Miami Player Ratings: A Tough Night Against Charlotte FC

Inter Miami player ratings took a hit as they suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Charlotte FC, with Lionel Messi missing a crucial penalty and Idan Toklomati seizing the spotlight. The Herons struggled without Luis Suárez, while Charlotte celebrated a record-equalling ninth consecutive win in MLS.

Messi’s Missed Penalty Proves Costly

Inter Miami player ratings started brightly at the Bank of America Stadium. The Herons pressed high up the pitch and created early opportunities, notably when Jordi Alba forced Charlotte FC goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina into an impressive save within six minutes. Their momentum appeared to pay off when they were awarded their first MLS penalty of the season in the 31st minute.

With usual penalty taker Luis Suárez suspended, the responsibility fell to Lionel Messi. The Argentine star attempted a Panenka, but Kahlina anticipated it, denying Messi and deflating Miami’s attacking confidence. Charlotte immediately capitalized on the miss. Within moments, Idan Toklomati finished off a rapid counterattack, giving the home side the lead and setting the tone for the remainder of the match.

Idan Toklomati Runs Riot Over Inter Miami

The second half saw Inter Miami player ratings continue to decline as Charlotte FC pressed their advantage. Wilfried Zaha, a constant threat on the wing, carved open Miami’s defense before assisting Toklomati for his second goal. The Herons struggled to contain Charlotte’s relentless pace and attacking fluency.

As the match neared its conclusion, Charlotte’s dominance was underlined further. In the 84th minute, Wilfried Zaha drew a penalty after being fouled by Sergio Busquets. Instead of taking the spot-kick himself, Zaha handed the ball to Toklomati, who completed his hat trick and secured his place in club history.

Inter Miami Player Ratings: Who Struggled Most?

Messi, despite some creative flashes, could not inspire his side, and his missed penalty proved to be a turning point. The absence of Luis Suárez as the focal point in attack left Miami without direction and bite up front. Midfield cohesion was lacking, and the defense was repeatedly breached by Charlotte’s sharp transitions.

Jordi Alba was a bright spot in the opening exchanges, but the backline as a whole failed to cope with Charlotte’s movement, particularly from Zaha and Toklomati. Goalkeeper Drake Callender was left exposed time after time, unable to prevent any of the three goals.

Charlotte FC Make History as Miami Falter

The emphatic result saw Charlotte FC tie the MLS record for consecutive league victories with nine. Their latest win further cements their status as one of the league’s most in-form sides. In contrast, Inter Miami’s struggles deepen, with three winless matches in their last four outings.

For Miami, the challenge is clear: pick up the pieces quickly and rediscover their attacking rhythm as they look to bounce back in upcoming fixtures. With Suárez’s return pending and Messi seeking redemption, the Herons must regroup to stay in the playoff race.

Looking Ahead and Final Thoughts

This performance highlights the growing pains facing Inter Miami as they adjust to key absences and mounting pressure. Messi’s missed penalty will be a bitter memory, but it’s a reminder that even the best can falter under pressure. The Herons need greater cohesion and adaptability if they hope to turn their season around.

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Opinion: Inter Miami’s defeat to Charlotte FC was not just about Messi’s missed penalty; it exposed deeper issues with squad depth and tactical flexibility. While Messi will undoubtedly bounce back, the team must find creative solutions in attack and tighten up defensively if they wish to compete at the highest level as the season progresses.