Togolese striker Kevin Denkey delivered another impressive performance in Major League Soccer despite FC Cincinnati suffering a dramatic 5-3 defeat to Inter Miami CF.
The high-scoring encounter, played at TQL Stadium during the 13th round of the MLS season, saw Inter Miami produce a late comeback inspired by a hat-trick from Lionel Messi.
Although Cincinnati ended up on the losing side, Denkey stood out once again with a goal and an assist in front of a sellout crowd of 25,513 spectators.
The Togolese international started the match and played the full 90 minutes, continuing his strong start to life in MLS.
Denkey opened his account in the game by converting a penalty in the 41st minute, helping Cincinnati remain competitive in an intense attacking contest.
He later provided the assist for Cincinnati’s third goal in the 64th minute when he played a forward pass to Evander, who advanced past defenders before firing into the top corner to give the home side a 3-2 advantage.
The contribution added to Denkey’s growing influence this season, with the striker now recording eight goals and two assists in 12 MLS appearances.
Despite Cincinnati’s attacking success, Inter Miami mounted a strong late response to turn the game around.
Miami equalised in the 80th minute after a Cincinnati turnover allowed Rodrigo De Paul to quickly release Messi in transition. Messi then found Mateo Silvetti, who scored to make it 3-3.
Just three minutes later, Miami completed the comeback when Messi’s free-kick was initially saved by goalkeeper Roman Celentano before German Berterame reacted quickest to the rebound to put the visitors ahead.
Messi later completed his hat-trick after converting from close range following another attacking move involving Silvetti.
The victory improved Inter Miami’s league record to 7-2-4 and moved the club into second place in the Eastern Conference.
For Cincinnati, the defeat ended an unbeaten run stretching back to early April and left the club with a 4-5-4 record and 16 points.
Although the result was disappointing for Cincinnati supporters, Denkey’s performance continued to underline his growing importance within the squad.
The Togolese forward has adapted quickly to the demands of MLS and is increasingly emerging as one of the notable African attacking players in the league.
African footballers continue to leave a strong impression across North American football, and Denkey’s performances this season have further strengthened that trend.
His ability to combine finishing, movement and creativity has made him a key figure for Cincinnati despite the club’s inconsistent results.
For Togo, the striker’s form will also be viewed positively as the national team looks towards future international competitions and qualifiers.
While Messi ultimately dominated headlines with another memorable performance, Denkey’s contribution ensured the Togolese forward remained one of the standout African performers in a thrilling MLS encounter.
