“Playoff Hopes Alive” – Minutes After Lionel Messi’s Hamstring Update, Toto Aviles’ Clutch Goal Saves Inter Miami, Sending Fans Into a Frenzy

Moments ago, Inter Miami played their MLS fixture against New York City. Once again in the absence of their star player Lionel Messi, the Herons couldn’t clinch a win at the DRV PNK Stadium. The home side continues their winless streak as today’s result has also impacted their MLS playoff hopes. Subsequently, the tie against New York City sparked a mixed bag of reactions from the soccer fraternity.

Inter Miami’s fortunes have taken a downturn since the World Cup winner was sidelined by injury. The club was already reeling from the disappointing loss in the US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo. Unfortunately, it appears that their situation may deteriorate even further a concerning recent update regarding Lionel Messi.

Fans react to Inter Miami’s last-minute draw against New York City

It was a lucky yet unlucky day for Inter Miami as they drew 1-1 against New York City. Both sides kicked off the first half in high spirits and tried to push each other’s buttons. However, neither side could conjure up anything, resulting in the first half ending in a stalemate. As the second half began, both sides again tried to pick up their attacking momentum.

Despite Inter Miami having the higher possession, in the 77th minute, New York managed to break the deadlock and scored the first goal of the match. Santiago Rodriguez managed to dribble past defenders and fired from a tight angle to the right-hand side of the post. Drake Callender had no chance whatsoever to save that one.

Thanks to the added extra time, the Herons managed to clinch an equalizer. In the 90+5th minute, Tomas Aviles managed to give his side a lifeline by scoring at the very end. The final whistle blew as New York split points with Miami. Following the match, netizens took to the social media platform X, to react to Inter Miami’s dramatic draw.

Playoff hopes are alive!

Was Inter Miami lucky tonight?

This netizen has urged to respect Inter Miami, who are not giving up even after the absence of Lionel Messi.

Fighting till the end. Guess who’s influence it is?

Meanwhile, fans are urging the Herons to perform well without Lionel Messi.

A fan believes that the Herons need to buckle up!

However, a few a happy with the draw.

A fan tried to analyze the final scorecard from a different viewpoint. ‘Something better than nothing’.

Indeed, it wasn’t the best result for Inter Miami. This draw has certainly left their MLS playoff hopes hanging in the balance, especially following the unfortunate update on Messi’s injury!

READ MORE: Inter Miami Sign Lionel Messi’s Brother-in-Law as Argentina’s Star’s Influence Grows in USA

Huge blow for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s MLS playoffs hopes

Following the draw, it’s certain that Inter Miami’s playoff hopes hang in balance. The Herons are without their star player Lionel Messi and qualifying without his presence poses as a bigger challenge. While staying hopeful for Messi’s return was an option, his injury is now worse than anticipated. Sadly, his injury has been clarified by an MRI, revealing a 2 cm hamstring tear. This unfortunate setback is expected to keep him out for the remainder of the MLS season.

The injury initially occurred during Argentina’s World Cup Qualifier game against Ecuador and worsened during the match against Toronto. Indeed, it is a huge blow for the Miami-based club. After New York, there are only four games left to play. Therefore, Miami will be aiming to excel in each of them. However, the recent update on Messi’s injury has further dimmed their chances. Today’s draw indicates that Miami needs to step up its game to secure a spot in the playoffs. How they navigate this challenge remains to be seen.

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