L ionel Messi’s dazzling run of form in Major League Soccer came to an abrupt halt on Wednesday night as Inter Miami suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of FC Cincinnati. The Argentine legend, who had scored braces in five consecutive matches, was kept quiet throughout the game, managing only two shots on target.

Rodrigo De Paul has lifted the lid on the powerful influence Lionel Messi exerts on those around him, praising the Argentina captain’s ability to lead through action rather than words. The Atletico Madrid midfielder offered rare insight into Messi’s understated authority while also hinting that their on-field chemistry might soon be rekindled,