Lionel Messi once again proved unstoppable as he scored twice to lead Inter Miami to a commanding 4-0 victory over New York City FC, a result that sealed their place in the Major League Soccer playoffs.
The night began with a breakthrough from Baltasar Rodriguez, who opened the scoring just before halftime. In the second half, Messi, 38, doubled Miami’s advantage in the 74th minute before his longtime friend and former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez converted from the penalty spot. Messi then returned to deliver the final blow, netting his 24th goal in 23 matches to complete the rout.
Head coach Javier Mascherano hailed the result as a major milestone. “We are pleased because we are now officially qualified for the playoffs, which is very important for us. We need to keep pushing forward,” he said after the game.
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Messi’s brace continues his dazzling run of form, bringing his tally to five goals in just nine days. Remarkably, he has scored two or more goals in eight of Miami’s last twelve matches, a statistic that underscores his dominance even at this stage of his career.
The victory lifts Inter Miami to third place in the Eastern Conference, only five points behind leaders Philadelphia Union with two games in hand. With momentum on their side, Miami is now eyeing the MLS Supporters’ Shield for the best regular-season record, while also positioning themselves as strong contenders for the coveted MLS Cup.
For Messi, whose arrival has transformed Inter Miami into one of the league’s most formidable teams, the playoffs are another chance to add silverware to his legendary career while electrifying American soccer with every performance.
