Sep 13, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte FC goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina (1) saves a penalty kick from Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) during the first half at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

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Lionel Messi’s Missed Panenka Penalty Proves Costly As Charlotte Humble Inter Miami

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi attempted a cheeky Panenka penalty on Saturday night against Charlotte FC. However, it backfired spectacularly as Inter Miami fell 3-0 to Charlotte FC at the Bank of America Stadium. The Argentine superstar saw his effort calmly saved by reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Kristijan Kahlina in the 32nd minute. Messi’s missed Panenka penalty proved costly as it completely shifted the momentum of the match.

Just two minutes later, 21-year-old Idan Toklomati opened the scoring with a well-taken finish from Kerwin Vargas’s cross. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the sellout crowd of 35,000. Toklomati went on to steal the show, scoring again early in the second half after a move involving Wilfried Zaha and Brandt Bronico. Toklomati then completed his hat trick from the penalty spot in the 84th minute.

Full time. pic.twitter.com/VAVZHZ7hWD
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 14, 2025

Lionel Messi Misses Penalty for First Time Since 2022

The miss was especially galling for Miami because it was the first penalty awarded to them all season throughout the 25 matches. But Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano saw his biggest star squander the rare opportunity. Notably, the last time Lionel Messi missed a penalty was in 2022. Messi still leads the league with 29 goal contributions (19 goals and 10 assists). However, he could not provide his usual spark as Charlotte’s relentless energy carried them to victory.

Also Read: Yoane Wissa Injury Update: Why Was Newcastle United Star’s Debut Delayed?

Inter Miami were also without veteran forward Luis Suarez, who began serving a three-match suspension following his spitting incident in the Leagues Cup final. Without their talismanic duo clicking, Javier Mascherano’s side looked toothless in attack and vulnerable at the back.

The defeat marked Miami’s second consecutive 3-0 loss after being humbled in Seattle on August 31. Inter Miami must regroup quickly if they are to keep pace in the playoff race. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s triumph etched their name in MLS history, as they matched Seattle’s 2018 record of nine straight wins in a single season. Dean Smith’s men now sit third in the Eastern Conference on 53 points, firmly in the playoff picture.

Charlotte FC

Inter Miami

Lionel Messi

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.