IMiami’s elimination in the last 16 of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup sparked a storm of criticism. Lionel Messi has reached the stratosphere of 900 career goals, but the 1-1 draw with Nashville SC (defeated on away goals) exposed the shortcomings of a project aiming for the highest level but stumbling in its backyard.
The most powerful voice after the final whistle was that of former USA international striker and current analyst Hercules Gomez, who immediately pointed the finger directly at the management, led by Jorge Mas and David Beckham.
Former USMNT star criticizes Jorge Mas and Beckham
Gomez took to social media to question the club’s international ambitions, which often look south of the continent while ignoring current initiatives.
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas wants to play in the Copa Libertadores…First of all, focus on CONCACAF Champions Cup, another painful loss
History is made every time Lionel Messi scores his 900th goal for Inter Miami
The analyst went further, pointing out that the Argentine star’s individual talent alone is not enough to sustain the team’s structure. “Messi needs help. This team still lacks leg strength and defensive stability,” he added, underscoring the team’s weakness as they have fallen behind in their continental performance despite signing talented players.
Messi’s new record
That night was a roller coaster of emotions. Messi scored the goal seven minutes later, his 900th goal, causing euphoria, but the joy did not last long. The team was unable to close out the match, allowing Argentina’s Cristian Espinosa to silence Chase Stadium in the 74th minute.
Messi’s new record could not be celebrated due to Inter Miami’s defeat. Having reached 900 goals, Messi showed that he is more current than ever and will do everything to take Inter Miami as far as possible and at the same time lead the Argentina national team in the World Cup.
