MIAMI — Lionel Messi has signaled his readiness for the upcoming World Cup with a virtuoso performance, scoring twice as Inter Miami secured a dramatic 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati. The Argentine captain was involved in nearly every key attacking sequence, helping his side climb to second in the MLS Eastern Conference standings.
With 11 goals in just 12 appearances this season, the 38-year-old maestro continues to defy age, guiding the Herons to a total of 25 points.
A Back-and-Forth Battle
The high-scoring affair began in the 24th minute when Messi capitalized on a botched clearance by Matt Miazga, slotting the ball home to give Miami an early lead. However, the visitors fought back:
41st Minute: Kevin Denkey converted a penalty to level the scores before the break.
Post-Restart: Pavel Bucha struck from close range to put Cincinnati ahead 2-1.
The lead was short-lived as Messi found the net again in the 55th minute, converting a precise cross from fellow countryman Rodrigo De Paul with a trademark left-footed finish.
Dramatic Finish
The pendulum swung once more in the 64th minute when Cincinnati’s Brazilian playmaker, Evander, restored the lead with a powerful long-range effort.
Determined to avoid defeat, Miami responded through youth and experience. Messi orchestrated the equalizer for young Argentine Mateo Silvetti in the 79th minute, followed shortly by a strike from Mexican forward Germán Berterame to make it 4-3.
The victory was sealed in the 89th minute following another Messi-led attack. His shot, deflected off a Silvetti cross, rattled the post before rebounding off goalkeeper Roman Celentano into the net. Though officially recorded as an own goal, the sequence underscored Messi’s relentless influence on the pitch as Miami prepares for a title charge.
