Despite the absences, Inter Miami held FC Cincinnati to a 0-0 draw at Chase Stadium on Saturday night. The team also presented new signing Rodrigo De Paul prior to kick off, introducing the World Cup winner and Messi's Argentina teammate to fans.

The owner of Inter Miami called Major League Soccer's suspension of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for skipping the All-Star Game a “draconian” punishment.

Fans and analysts are polarized: some see rest as warranted because of Messi’s age and the load on his body; others see this as a slap in the face of the league and the fans.

Inter Miami played FC Cincinnati to a 0-0 draw without the suspended Lionel Messi on Saturday night.

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami team-mate Jordi Alba have been given one-match bans for skipping Major League Soccer's All-Star game earlier this week.

Mas has criticised the decision and believes the ban will impact how Messi – who has become the face of MLS since his move to Miami – views the league.