Inter Miami’s home clash with Columbus Crew turned sour for new signing Casemiro, whose double blunder proved costly in a match that also marked Lionel Messi’s return to the side.
The former Manchester United midfielder was at fault for Columbus Crew’s equaliser in the first half, with a failed clearance attempt leading directly to an own goal.
It was a miserable start for the 34-year-old, who had only recently completed his high-profile move to the MLS club from Old Trafford.
Inter Miami had taken the lead through Luis Suárez in the 16th minute, giving the hosts a positive platform to build on in front of their home supporters.
However, Casemiro’s misfortune handed Columbus Crew a route back into the contest, leaving his new teammates frustrated at the circumstances surrounding the leveller.
Allen restored Miami’s advantage in the 50th minute, briefly settling nerves and suggesting the hosts could go on to claim all three points from the fixture.
Messi was introduced in the 53rd minute on his return to the squad, and his presence immediately raised expectations among fans hoping for a decisive contribution.
Despite the legendary Argentine’s involvement, Columbus Crew struck again in the 84th minute when Brais Méndez’s free kick found the net to snatch a point for the visitors.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos acknowledged that the game “slipped away” in the final minutes but hailed his team, especially the returning Messi and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul.
The result compounded what has been a turbulent debut period for Casemiro, with Major League Soccer confirming it is investigating a “tampering allegation” connected to his transfer to the club.
Despite the controversy surrounding his arrival, Casemiro made clear why he chose Miami over other options available to him following his departure from Manchester United.
The experienced Brazilian said: “For me, without a doubt, I am coming only to play with the best player of all time,” referencing eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi as his primary motivation.
It remains to be seen how quickly Casemiro can settle and repay the faith placed in him by the club, particularly with the MLS investigation still ongoing in the background.
