MLS: Fillipi's late goal saves Inter Miami from loss

Inter Miami fans watched a tense conclusion at home on Wednesday night as the match ended in a 2-2 draw with FC Cincinnati. The result keeps the reigning MLS Cup champions in third place in the Eastern Conference standings.

Luis Suárez gave the home side an early lead in the 61st minute. Cincinnati responded quickly in the final 20 minutes, scoring twice to take the lead. Kenji Mboma Dem equalized for the visitors in the 80th minute. Samuel Gidi added to the lead six minutes later with his first Major League Soccer goal, finishing a counterattack from the top of the box.

Riquelme Fillipi scored his first MLS goal in the 90th minute to level the score. He struck the ball from the left side of the box, a position similar to where Suárez had found the net earlier in the match. This goal prevented Cincinnati from securing a surprise road victory.

Cincinnati had a final chance to win the game in stoppage time. Evander shot from near the penalty spot, but Inter Miami defender Ian Fray blocked the path. He deflected the ball away, and the subsequent corner kick did not threaten the goal. The final whistle ended the match immediately after.

New England Revolution defeated Red Bull New York 3-2 on Wednesday to reach 58 points. Inter Miami now sits at 56 points with two matches left. New England has two matches remaining as well. The gap between the two teams is two points.

Inter Miami travels to Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Sunday to play the Revolution. That match will largely determine which team holds the number two seed in the Eastern Conference. Miami's next-to-last regular season game is scheduled for Nov. 7 at home against Charlotte.

FC Cincinnati needed a win in Miami and a loss for Columbus to Dallas to secure a playoff spot. The draw leaves the club still seeking a postseason berth. MLS announced that Cincinnati will visit Miami again on Feb. 19 for the opening game of next year's Sprint Season. This shortened campaign serves as a bridge to a new international schedule starting in July 2027.