MLS Returns from World Cup Hiatus with a Shocking Own Goal

In under 20 minutes into the match between Inter Miami and Chicago, Lionel Messi’s squad found themselves trailing after a comical blunder by keeper Rocco Ríos Novo. This moment perfectly captured the homegrown soccer scene that fans are returning to following the excitement of the recently hosted 2026 World Cup. Thankfully, the Premier League kicks off in less than a month.

The incident unfolded when Inter Miami’s right defender sent a back pass to Novo while facing pressure from Chicago. With ample time to clear the ball, Novo attempted a strange one-time kick with the outside of his right foot but completely missed. The ball rolled straight into the net, putting Chicago ahead as Novo’s teammates tried to console him with smiles and pats on the back.

It was reminiscent of Matt Freese’s disastrous giveaway during the USMNT match against Belgium, where he overcomplicated a simple clearance, contributing to the U.S.’s struggles in the World Cup. Freese faced boos during his return to MLS with NYCFC, although his team managed to secure a 2-1 victory against Columbus.

Despite Novo’s slip-up, Inter Miami rallied to a 3-2 win over Chicago, but the moment became fodder for fans to poke fun at MLS’s post-World Cup slogan, “We’ll take it from here.” This slogan was highlighted in a commercial featuring David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, encouraging new fans drawn in by the World Cup to keep enjoying soccer by attending local MLS matches.

MLS teams are seeing significant increases in ticket sales and viewership since their return on July 22. Those tuning in are witnessing a league that, while improving in quality and style, still has room for growth. On a positive note, my own Philadelphia Union broke their winless streak at home with a 3-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, leaving them at the bottom of the standings out of 30 teams. The only way is up from here—perhaps that should have been MLS’s slogan.