Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass as Inter Miami stormed into its first MLS Eastern Conference Final with a 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati on Sunday.
The Argentine superstar scored once and assisted three times, continuing his dominant postseason run.
Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute, heading home a cross from teenager Mateo Silvetti after Jordi Alba intercepted a Cincinnati pass to spark the attack. Silvetti, just 19, later doubled Miami’s lead in the 57th minute, finishing a curling strike after a clever layoff from Messi.
Tadeo Allende added two more goals in the 62nd and 74th minutes, both created by Messi’s vision and precise throughballs. The win marked Miami’s second consecutive 4-0 playoff triumph, following their victory over Nashville SC in round one.
Manager Javier Mascherano opted not to start Luis Suarez, who had returned from suspension after a red card in the Nashville match. Despite Suarez’s absence, Miami’s youthful front line, led by Messi, reached another level over the last 180 minutes.
Messi has now contributed to every Miami goal this postseason, tallying six goals and six assists. His performance builds on a regular season where he scored 29 goals and registered 19 assists, positioning him for a likely second consecutive MLS MVP award.
Cincinnati, meanwhile, suffered elimination in a home playoff match for the third straight year, falling short of reaching its second East final.
Inter Miami will now face New York City FC in the summit clash, continuing the deepest playoff run in club history. With Messi orchestrating the attack, Miami looks poised to challenge for its first MLS Cup.
ALSO READ: Davis Cup 2025: Italy Beats Spain to Complete Hat-Trick of Titles
