FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, July 27 (V7N) — Lionel Messi remained composed and relaxed as he observed Inter Miami's goalless clash with FC Cincinnati from a suite at Chase Stadium on Saturday, serving his one-match suspension for skipping the MLS All-Star Game earlier this week.

Seated between his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and longtime friend and teammate Rodrigo De Paul, Messi appeared at ease throughout the match. He was frequently seen sipping and sharing traditional Argentine yerba mate using the newly popular Stanley Flow Mate System, adding a touch of personal ritual to an otherwise high-stakes evening.

On the field, the match between two of the Eastern Conference's top sides ended in a 0–0 draw, but not without late-game controversy. In stoppage time, FC Cincinnati’s defender Miles Robinson headed the ball into the net (90’+3’), seemingly scoring the winner. However, replays showed apparent contact with Inter Miami’s Noah Allen, with Robinson’s arm making contact with Allen’s head during the play.

Referee ruled the challenge a foul, disallowing the goal. Despite a VAR review, there was insufficient evidence to overturn the decision, and the goal was not awarded.

The draw keeps Cincinnati at the top of the Supporters’ Shield standings with 49 points, while Inter Miami remain in fifth place in the East with 42 points and three games in hand.

While Messi’s absence on the field was felt, the attention surrounding his calm presence and the game's dramatic conclusion ensured that the night remained a significant moment in the ongoing MLS season.

Observers noted that Messi’s demeanor — far from agitated or “very upset,” as some speculated — reinforced his focus on long-term goals as Inter Miami prepares for a demanding second half of the season.

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