Inter Miami’s difficult spell deepened on Saturday, with Toronto FC winning 2-1 at home and leaving the MLS Cup champions without a victory in five consecutive games.
The visitors seized the initiative after the interval. Josh Sargent broke the deadlock in the 59th minute, and Derrick Etienne Jr. struck again just three minutes later to put Toronto two goals ahead.
That rapid double dealt a major blow to Miami, who found it difficult to mount a meaningful comeback.
Lionel Messi gave the hosts hope in the 82nd minute, finishing a move set up by Rodrigo De Paul. However, the Argentine’s goal could not spare Inter Miami from another frustrating result.
The loss extends Miami’s winless sequence to five matches, following their recent 2-2 stalemate with Philadelphia Union.
The reigning MLS Cup holders will attempt to halt that slide when they resume league play next Saturday against CF Montreal.
Toronto FC will also be at home in their next fixture, welcoming New York City FC as they look to climb further up the Eastern Conference table.
