Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass Wednesday night, scoring twice and assisting once as Inter Miami thrashed New York City FC 4-0 to clinch an MLS Cup playoff berth.
The Argentine superstar now leads Major League Soccer’s scoring chart outright with 24 goals in 23 matches — two more than LAFC’s Denis Bouanga — as he continues to strengthen his case for the 2025 MVP award.
Luis Suárez, back from a three-game suspension, converted a penalty, while Baltazar Rodriguez opened the scoring just before halftime at rainy Citi Field.
New York had dominated early chances, forcing saves from Oscar Ustari and striking the woodwork, but Miami punished their wastefulness. In the 43rd minute, Sergio Busquets linked with Messi, whose through ball found Rodriguez racing into the box to slot home calmly.
The second half belonged to Messi. In the 74th minute, he burst past a defender and chipped goalkeeper Matt Freese for a vintage finish. After Suárez made it 3-0 from the spot, Messi capped the night with an angled strike into the bottom corner in the 86th.
The victory lifted Miami to third in the Eastern Conference, five points off leaders Philadelphia with two games in hand, keeping alive their pursuit of the Supporters’ Shield.
Messi has now produced a goal and an assist in three straight matches, proving once again why Inter Miami a serious contender for silverware.
