Ohio (United States), July 17(HS): FC Cincinnati's star midfielder Avender set a club record by scoring in his fifth consecutive match, contributing significantly to a 3-0 victory over Inter Miami at TQL Stadium. Avender scored a stunning left-footed shot from the middle of the box to extend the lead to 2-0 at the start of the second half, following another goal he netted in the same period. With this performance, he reached a total of 15 goals in the MLS regular season. The win marked Miami's first loss since May 18, ending their streak of five consecutive victories.

Gerardo Valenzuela opened the scoring in the 16th minute with another shot into the lower right corner. Cincinnati dominated the first half, making 7 shots (4 on target), while Inter Miami struggled offensively. Cincinnati's defense, led by goalkeeper Roman Celentano, completely neutralized Miami's attacking strategies, including thwarting two attempts from superstar Lionel Messi.

Celentano recorded his seventh clean sheet of the season with key saves, while Miami's goalkeepers, Oscar Ustari and Rocco Rios Novo, managed four saves but could not prevent the defeat. With this match, Cincinnati improved its record to 14 wins, 6 losses, and 3 draws, totaling 45 points in the season. Meanwhile, Miami recorded 11 wins, 4 losses, and 5 draws, with 38 points.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar