Lionel Messi showed an unusual behavior during frustrating tie for Inter Miami

For the first time since Lionel Messi arrived in MLS, Inter Miami failed to score in a match, sparking an uncharacteristic reaction from the captain.

It was a physical and defensive showdown,

Messi shows unusual behavior with Nashville SC defender Jack Maher

The visitors shut down the seemingly unstoppable Argentinian, who had registered at least one goal or assist in every match he played previously for the Pink and Black. The team marked 27 goals in the first nine games he played.

Nashville eventually held Inter Miami to a 0-0 draw in a rematch of the Leagues Cup Final, which Miami won on penalty kicks earlier this month.

It was Inter Miami’s first home game in MLS league play, but the crowd full of stars at DRV PNK Stadium left the much-anticipated match disappointed.

MLS Highlights and Goals – Inter Miami 0-0 Nashville SC

The frustration shown by Messi and his teammates illustrated the battle Inter Miami still faces in the league standings.

The draw took them to 22 points from 24 league games this season, good for 14th place out of 15 teams in the MLS Eastern Conference.

The top nine earn a chance at the MLS Cup through the Playoffs.