(MENAFN) Lionel Messi was the driving force behind Inter Miami’s commanding 4-0 home victory against Atlanta United on Saturday, netting twice and assisting once to solidify his team’s position in the MLS standings.

Messi opened the scoring in the 39th minute, linking up with Baltasar Rodriguez before curling a precise shot into the far corner from just inside the 18-yard box.

Shortly after the break, Jordi Alba extended the lead by expertly finishing a diagonal pass from Messi, lofting the ball over Atlanta’s goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert.

Luis Suarez then showcased his skill with a stunning long-range volley, capitalizing on a headed defensive clearance to make it 3-0.

Messi capped the win by controlling Alba’s long pass with his chest and sending a low shot past Hibbert. The 38-year-old Argentina captain now boasts 26 goals and 18 assists across 27 MLS appearances this season.

With this win, Inter Miami has climbed to 62 points from 33 matches, trailing Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia by four points with one game remaining. Meanwhile, Atlanta United languishes near the bottom, positioned 14th out of 15 teams.

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