Inter Miami continued their unbeaten start to the 2025 MLS season with a gritty 1-0 victory over Columbus Crew at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, in front of a record-breaking crowd. While the spotlight was naturally on Lionel Messi's 50th appearance for the club, it was the team's depth that proved decisive on the night.

Cremaschi Delivers the Winner

The match's only goal came courtesy of Benjamin Cremaschi in the 30th minute. Marcelo Weigandt whipped in a perfectly placed cross from the right flank, and Cremaschi met it with a brave diving header to beat Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte. It was Cremaschi’s first goal of the season, but perhaps his most important yet, demonstrating that Inter Miami are far from a one-man team.

Defensive Steel Leads the Way

Despite Columbus Crew’s spirited attempts to level the score including dangerous efforts from Diego Rossi and Cucho Hernández Inter Miami’s defense held firm. Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari produced several crucial saves, preserving the clean sheet and securing Miami’s fourth shutout of the season.

Led by center-backs Nicolás Freire and Serhiy Kryvtsov, the Herons’ backline showcased newfound resilience, a quality that could prove pivotal as the season progresses.

Messi Hits 50 and Still Leads the Charge

Although Lionel Messi didn't find the scoresheet, his influence was undeniable. Orchestrating attacks with his trademark vision and precision, Messi ensured Inter Miami controlled the tempo when needed and threatened on the counter. His 50th appearance for the club stands as another milestone in a remarkable American chapter for the legendary Argentine.

Record-Breaking Night in Cleveland

The atmosphere at Huntington Bank Field was electric, with 60,614 fans packing the stadium the largest crowd ever for a non-NFL sporting event at the venue. The buzz surrounding Messi’s appearance highlighted Major League Soccer’s skyrocketing popularity and the magnetic pull of global superstars like him.

Eyes on a Bigger Prize

With the victory, Inter Miami stay top of the Eastern Conference standings and remain firmly in the hunt for both domestic and continental silverware. Their next major challenge looms large: a Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal against Vancouver Whitecaps, where the Herons will need their full squad firing to continue their trophy quest.