No Messi, no victory as Miami's playoff hopes slip in Orlando draw | OneFootball

An Inter Miami without Leo Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba drew 1-1 away to rivals Orlando City, seeing their hopes of making the MLS Cup Playoffs continue to slip away.

Scorers: McGuire 66′ ; Ruiz 52′

Without their stars it looked a tall task for Miami, who came into the night desperately needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.

But the Herons played on the front-foot from the off, and while they struggled in front of goal in the opening 45 minutes, the ball bounced their way after the break.

After lovely combination play, Leo Campana picked out Josef Martínez in behind, and while his shot was parried away, it fell into the path of David Ruiz from point-blank range to give the visitors they lead they needed.

It would not last long however, as Duncan McGuire got in behind and stabbed home to level the scoreline once again, putting Miami’s playoff credentials back in jeopardy.

The draw sees Miami remain in 14th place, five points outside of the playoffs with as many games remaining.