Inter Miami's impressive streak of five consecutive victories came to a halt on Wednesday when they faced Orlando City without the presence of the injured, Lionel Messi.
The absence of the Argentine talisman resulted in a goalless draw for Miami. Although Messi had played a pivotal role in the team's recent triumphs, a knee injury sidelined him for the Orlando clash.
Despite reassurances from Miami regarding the minor nature of Messi's injury and his recent training sessions, the decision was made to rest him for the midweek fixture.
In Messi's absence, attention turned to his former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez, who entered the game as one of the league's top scorers with 11 goals. Suarez had early opportunities but failed to convert, with Orlando's goalkeeper Pedro Gallese thwarting his attempts.
Miami's attacking efforts saw combinations between Paraguayan Matias Rojas and Suarez, resulting in chances for Robert Taylor, but Orlando's defence stood firm. Orlando, on the other hand, gradually gained momentum, testing Miami's goalkeeper, Drake Callender, through Martin Ojeda and Luis Muriel.
As the game progressed, both defences tightened up, with limited clear-cut opportunities. Orlando nearly capitalised on a chance in the second half, but Muriel hesitated and lost possession inside the box.
In the dying moments of the game, Orlando pressed forward in pursuit of a decisive goal, yet Japanese substitute Yutaro Tsukada squandered a promising opportunity, sending his shot off target.
