Former Bayern Munich pro Thomas Müller was once again left on the bench for Vancouver Whitecaps in their draw against Portland. Lionel Messi sealed Inter Miami’s playoff spot with a brace.
Without former world champion Müller, the Vancouver Whitecaps’ winning streak in Major League Soccer has come to an end. Against the Portland Timbers, the Canadians drew 1-1 (0-1) after three consecutive wins. Miller scored for Portland in the 39th minute. White equalized for Vancouver shortly before the end to make it 1-1 (88th minute).
However, they have already qualified for the playoffs. Müller was again absent due to his adductor problems and watched the game from the stands. The former Bayern star has returned to training but is not yet participating in all exercises.
It is still unclear whether Müller will play again in the next MLS game against the Seattle Sounders on Sunday night. The 36-year-old has impressed in his three appearances for the Whitecaps so far, scoring five goals.
Messi: Two goals, one assist
Argentinian Messi secured Inter Miami’s playoff spot with two goals (74th/86th) and an assist. Thanks to the 4-0 (1-0) win at New York City FC, the Argentinian world champion’s team can no longer be displaced from one of the spots in the knockout round in the Eastern Conference with 55 points.
These were Messi’s 23rd and 24th goals, putting the 38-year-old at the top of the MLS scoring charts. Luis Suarez made it 3-0 in the 83rd minute with a converted penalty kick.