An Inter Miami team missing the suspended Lionel Messi missed the chance to gain ground on Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati after being held to a 0-0 draw in Major League Soccer on Saturday.That meant Messi and Alba could only watch on from the sidelines in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday as Inter were frustrated by a well-organised Cincinnati team.

Despite the absences, Inter Miami held FC Cincinnati to a 0-0 draw at Chase Stadium on Saturday night. The team also presented new signing Rodrigo De Paul prior to kick off, introducing the World Cup winner and Messi's Argentina teammate to fans.

Cincinnati defender Miles Robinson nearly scored the winner a couple minutes into stoppage time on Saturday when he headed home MVP candidate Evander’s free kick, but the goal was disallowed

The 31-year-old star is officially Messi's club teammate after Inter Miami announced De Paul's arrival on Friday. It's a reunion for the two Argentina stars who led the Albiceleste to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar.

FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami had quality chances to take the lead, but neither team prevailed in the 0-0 draw.

Donovan Warns MLS: Suspending Lionel Messi Would Backfire originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

To secure extra time to meet city council approval, Barcelona asked UEFA for the club’s first Champions League fixture of the season—which would fall midway through September—to be on the road. The club’s first three La Liga matches are already confirmed as away games.