Messi Leads Inter Miami to 4-0 Win, Advances to MLS Final

Lionel Messi delivered a brilliant performance as Inter Miami secured a commanding 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati on Sunday, keeping their hopes alive for a first-ever MLS Cup final appearance. Messi scored one goal and assisted all three other goals, as Tadeo Allende scored twice and Mateo Silvetti added one more. The win sets up a clash with New York City FC next Saturday in the Eastern Conference final.

New York City FC advanced after a 1-0 win over top-seeded Philadelphia, with Maxi Moralez scoring the only goal in the 27th minute. Third-seeded Miami entered the match full of confidence, dominating second-seeded Cincinnati with skill, speed, and precise passing.

Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi and his squad for a near-perfect performance. “The players showed incredible character and played a practically perfect match. It’s an honor to manage Leo and this group of players,” Mascherano said. “We know what Messi can do with and without the ball, and today he showed it all again.”

A sold-out TQL Stadium witnessed Cincinnati struggle to convert early chances. Kevin Denkey forced a save from Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo after 15 minutes, but it was Miami who struck first. Messi picked out Silvetti with a precise pass, and Silvetti returned the favor with a cross, which Messi finished with a calm header to make it 1-0.

Cincinnati nearly equalized in the 22nd minute, but Ender Echenique shot wide. Miami dominated thereafter, with Messi narrowly missing a chance to make it 2-0 in the 27th minute. The breakthrough came in the 57th minute when Messi found Silvetti, who curled a beautiful shot into the net to double the lead.

As Cincinnati pressed forward, gaps appeared in their defense, and Messi continued to orchestrate the attack. On 62 minutes, Messi assisted Allende for the third goal, and again on 74 minutes, he set up Allende for the fourth, completing a brilliant display of teamwork and vision.

The Inter Miami win moves them one step closer to the MLS Cup final scheduled for December 6. The Eastern and Western Conference champions will meet to contest the championship. In the Western Conference, Vancouver will face the winner of Monday’s match between San Diego and Minnesota United.

Messi’s performance highlighted why he remains one of the world’s greatest players, controlling the pace, creating opportunities, and demonstrating his leadership on the pitch. Inter Miami fans will be eagerly anticipating the Eastern final, hoping Messi’s magic can guide them to their first-ever MLS championship.