SPORTS DESK – Inter Miami secured a thrilling 5-3 victory over Cincinnati in a match filled with drama, powered by a masterclass from Lionel Messi.
The Argentine superstar scored twice and provided an assist, proving he is in peak form just before the World Cup.
Match Highlights
The scoring opened in the 24th minute when Messi found the net with a stroke of luck; an opponent’s clearance deflected off him and looped over the goalkeeper.
Cincinnati fought back, equalizing with a penalty in the first half and taking the lead early in the second. However, Messi responded in the 55th minute with a clinical low shot to pull Inter Miami level. He then turned playmaker, assisting Mateo Silvetti to put Miami back in front.
In the closing stages, a Messi free-kick created the opportunity for German Berterame to score. The victory was sealed in the final moments when a strike from Messi hit the post, deflected off the keeper, and went in.
Chasing the 1,000 Goal Milestone
With this performance, Messi’s season tally in Major League Soccer (MLS) rises to 11 goals and 4 assists. His 15 goal contributions currently place him at the top of the league.
Globally, Messi has now reached 910 career goals, leaving him just 90 goals away from the historic 1,000-goal milestone. When asked about the record, the humble captain stated:
“I don’t think much about records. The most important thing is helping the team win”.
For Argentina fans, Messi’s “fire” form provides a massive sigh of relief and excitement as the World Cup approaches.