Messi-less Miami held

An Inter Miami side missing the suspended Lionel Messi missed the opportunity to close the gap on Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati after being held to a goalless draw in Major League Soccer on Saturday.

Messi and team-mate Jordi Alba were both suspended from the home fixture in Fort Lauderdale, following their controversial decision to withdraw from this week's MLS All-Star Game in Texas.

As a result, the pair could only watch from the sidelines as Inter Miami were left frustrated by a disciplined and well-drilled Cincinnati side.

The hosts were given a major reprieve in the final moments of stoppage time when Cincinnati defender Miles Robinson had a potential winner ruled out, after he was harshly adjudged to have fouled Inter's Noah Allen while challenging for a header.

The draw leaves Miami seven points behind Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference standings.

Prior to kick-off, Miami used the occasion to formally present new star signing Rodrigo De Paul, a World Cup winner with Argentina and team-mate of Messi.

The 31-year-old midfielder arrives from Spanish club Atlético Madrid and is expected to make his debut during Inter's upcoming Leagues Cup campaign.

"What's brought me to Inter Miami is the desire to compete, to win titles, and to help write new chapters in the club's history," said De Paul after the club confirmed his signing late on Friday.

"This is a club building towards something big — one with the potential for a long and proud history, and I want to be part of that journey."

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham welcomed the addition, describing De Paul as a player who would bring "experience, passion and quality" to the team.

"Rodrigo is someone I've admired for years," Beckham said. "As a leader, he's made a huge impact on every team he's played for — particularly the Argentina national side.

"I'm thrilled to welcome another World Cup winner not just to Inter Miami, but also to Major League Soccer."