Lionel Messi`s brilliance couldn`t prevent a humiliating defeat for Inter Miami as they were thrashed 4-1 by Minnesota United, marking the Argentine superstar`s worst loss since joining the MLS.

At Allianz Field on Sunday morning (May 11, Dhaka time), Messi`s goal proved to be a mere consolation as Minnesota ran rampant.

Minnesota took a commanding first-half lead through goals from Bongokuhle Hlongwane and an Anthony Markanich header. While Messi pulled one back for Inter Miami early in the second half, a Marcelo Weigandt own goal restored the home side`s two-goal advantage. Robin Lod then sealed a comprehensive victory for Minnesota with a well-taken strike.

Despite dominating possession with 74% of the ball and registering more shots, Miami lacked clinical edge. They managed just 3 shots on target out of 10, while Minnesota efficiently converted 4 of their 5 shots on target.

Minnesota had an early goal by Oluwaseyi ruled out for offside in the 11th minute following a Messi error. However, they capitalized on defensive frailties in the 32nd minute when Hlongwane slotted home after Joaquin Pereira evaded several Miami defenders to set up Harvey, who then found the unmarked South African in the six-yard box. Messi had a chance to equalize six minutes later, but his shot was saved by the Minnesota goalkeeper.

Minnesota doubled their lead in the second minute of first-half stoppage time. A long throw-in into the Miami half was flicked on by Nicolas Romero to Markanich, who headed home unchallenged.

Inter Miami offered a glimmer of hope early in the second half when Messi latched onto a Jordi Alba pass from the left, creating space in the box to place his shot into the net.

This was Messi`s fifth league goal in eight appearances this season, adding to his two assists. It was also his 43rd goal in 53 appearances for Inter Miami, along with 23 assists.

However, Miami`s comeback hopes were dashed in the 68th minute when Weigandt inadvertently directed a Minnesota corner into his own net.

Two minutes later, Lod extended Minnesota`s lead with a stunning goal. Winning a long ball from their own half, Oluwaseyi beat Noah Allen before cutting it back for Lod, who unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box past the Miami goalkeeper.

Messi had another attempt saved by the Minnesota keeper in the 72nd minute, compounding his frustration.

This heavy defeat is Messi`s largest since arriving in the MLS. It marks Miami`s fourth loss in their last five games across all competitions.

Despite the setback, Inter Miami remain fourth in the Eastern Conference with 21 points from 11 games, trailing leaders Columbus Crew on goal difference. Minnesota sits second in the Western Conference with 22 points from 12 matches.