Messi Leads the Charge
In the MLS Playoffs quarterfinals, Inter Miami delivered a stunning 4–0 victory over FC Cincinnati, powered by another masterclass from Lionel Messi. The Argentine star opened the scoring with a rare header in the 19th minute before adding three brilliant assists in the second half. Inter Miami, who struggled against Cincinnati in the regular season, relied heavily on Messi’s brilliance to secure a dominant win and advance to the Eastern Conference Final.
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Dominant Display from Miami Trio
Luis Suárez returned from suspension but started on the bench, while Messi, Busquets, Alba and De Paul all started. Cincinnati began strongly, yet Miami’s defensive structure held firm.
In the 19th minute, Jordi Alba intercepted the ball on the left, progressing forward before finding De Paul, who cleverly dummied the pass. Messi quickly switched play to Mateo Silvety on the wing. Silvety crossed into the box, and Messi charged in to head home the opener.
At 57 minutes, Messi returned the favor with a pinpoint through ball to Silvety, who slotted in the second goal. 62 minutes, Messi won the ball with Silvety and delivered a surgical pass for Tadeo Allende, who finished calmly for 3–0.
At 74 minutes, the same combination repeated: Messi’s through ball, Allende’s breakaway, Miami’s fourth goal.
Messi Records Keep Growing
Suárez came on late but struggled, overshadowed by the unstoppable trio of Messi, Silvety and Allende, who combined for all four goals.
In his professional career, Messi has now scored 896 goals, just four away from the historic 900 mark. At 38 years old, he continues to perform at an elite level, a true testament to his longevity and excellence.
Miami Marches into Eastern Final
Miami now advances to the MLS Eastern Conference Final to face the winner between New York City FC and Philadelphia Union. From this stage onward, all playoff matches are single elimination — extra time and penalties if required.
Busquets (37) and Jordi Alba (36) are set to retire after this season, which gives Messi even more motivation to push Inter Miami toward their first MLS championship. With form peaking at the perfect time, Messi may deliver one more title run to honor his longtime teammates — and to crown his own spectacular season.
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