Inter Miami keeper Rocco Rios Novo mocked online after own-goal howler in win over Chicago Fire

Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo was widely mocked on social media after gifting Chicago Fire an extraordinary own goal – despite his side going on to claim a 3-2 Major League Soccer victory.

The Argentine’s calamitous error came in the 18th minute, when he failed to control a routine back-pass from a team-mate and allowed the ball to roll tamely into his own net. Clips of the incident were rapidly shared online, drawing widespread ridicule and turning the young keeper into an overnight talking point.

The match was played without Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi, who was given a rest following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. In his absence, long-time friend and strike partner Luis Suarez took centre stage, scoring twice to haul Miami to a crucial league win.

The encounter also marked the MLS debut of Poland striker Robert Lewandowski for Chicago Fire, after his recent move from Barcelona. However, the prolific forward was unable to make an impact in his first outing for the club.

Suarez steps up in Messi’s absence

Without Messi available, the focus before kick-off had fallen on how Inter Miami would cope without their talisman.

Suarez, who has rekindled his partnership with Messi in Miami this season, answered that question in decisive fashion. The Uruguayan scored two of his side’s three goals, leading the comeback and underlining his enduring quality in front of goal.

Lewandowski, starting from the first whistle for Chicago, was expected to provide a cutting edge for his new team. But the 35-year-old struggled to influence play and was substituted in the 63rd minute, leaving the pitch without a goal or assist to his name in his first match for the Fire.

Viral blunder overshadows debut of Lewandowski

Despite the high-profile presence of Lewandowski and the decisive brace from Suarez, it was Rios Novo’s mistake that dominated discussion during and after the game.

With the score still finely poised, the Inter Miami goalkeeper appeared under no pressure as a simple pass was rolled back towards him. Attempting to take a touch, he misjudged the ball completely, allowing it to slip under his control and cross the goal line.

The incident “اثار السخرية على مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي” – “sparked mockery on social media” – as supporters and neutrals alike circulated replays of the mishap. Many users highlighted the contrast between Miami’s star-studded attacking line-up and the fragility shown at the back on this occasion.

Table implications for both clubs

The victory carried significant weight in the league standings. Inter Miami’s win moved them up to 34 points, placing them second in the table as they continue their push for the top spot.

Chicago Fire, by contrast, were left stranded on 26 points. They remain third, though they do have a game in hand which could yet narrow the gap if they take advantage.

While Lewandowski’s arrival is expected to bolster Chicago’s attacking threat over the coming weeks, his quiet debut underlined the adjustment period often required when switching leagues and teams.

For Inter Miami, the night ultimately reinforced the depth of their attacking options even without Messi, but also served as a reminder that high-profile mistakes can instantly overshadow even a hard-fought win in the social media era.