An Inter Miami team missing the suspended Lionel Messi missed the chance to gain ground on Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati after being held to a 0-0 draw in Major League Soccer on Saturday.That meant Messi and Alba could only watch on from the sidelines in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday as Inter were frustrated by a well-organised Cincinnati team.

Inter Miami, without international superstar Lionel Messi, will host FC Cincinnati in both team's first game after the All-Star Break. Find out how you can watch the game for free.

It took controversial calls and some tense moments, but neither Inter Miami nor FC Cincinnati were able to find the back of the net on Saturday night, ending the MLS Eastern Conference heavyweight clash with a scoreless draw.

SportsLine's Jon Eimer reveals his picks for FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami at Chase Stadium on Saturday with Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba out due to suspension

Roman Celentano logged a third-straight clean sheet and Miles Robinson had a would-be game winning goal waived off due to a foul as FC Cincinnati played Inter Miami to a scoreless draw Saturday night.

Five good teams have a shot at topping the Eastern Conference, and the Union might be the favorite. Plus a look at the start of the summer transfer window, and Tai Baribo's hopes for a new contract.