Messi Leads Inter Miami to MLS Playoff Berth with Commanding Win

2025-09-25 08:57:37

(MENAFN) Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance as Inter Miami secured a crucial MLS playoff berth with a commanding 4-0 win over New York City on Wednesday.

The visitors broke the deadlock just before halftime when Baltasar Rodriguez expertly finished after receiving a precision through ball from Messi, slotting it calmly into the bottom-right corner.

Messi then extended the lead with a delicate chip over goalkeeper Matt Freese, following a defense-splitting pass from Sergio Busquets.

Luis Suarez added to the tally by converting a penalty awarded after Justin Haak fouled Rodrigo de Paul.

In the closing stages, Messi sealed the victory by cutting into the box and curling a right-footed shot from a tight angle into the far corner, cementing the emphatic win.

The 38-year-old eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has now amassed 32 goals and 14 assists in 38 appearances across all competitions this season for Miami.

Inter Miami currently sit third in the Eastern Conference with 55 points, trailing leaders Philadelphia by five points.

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