In a masterclass performance, Lionel Messi scored twice and assisted another goal to lead Inter Miami to a resounding 4-0 victory over New York City FC. The win, secured at Citi Field on Wednesday night, was particularly significant as it officially clinched a spot for Inter Miami in the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs.
The match, which was a competitive affair for much of the first half, saw Inter Miami take the lead just before halftime through Baltasar Rodríguez, who was set up by a precise through ball from Messi.
The game broke open in the final 15 minutes, with Messi taking control. He scored his first goal of the night in the 74th minute with a delicate chip over the goalkeeper. Nine minutes later, Luis Suárez converted a penalty kick to extend the lead to 3-0. Messi then capped off his stellar performance with a solo effort in the 86th minute, weaving through the NYCFC defense before finding the back of the net.
The brace adds to Messi’s impressive season statistics, bringing his total goal contributions to 37 (24 goals, 13 assists). This makes him the first player in MLS history to achieve at least 35 goal contributions in back-to-back seasons. The two goals also tie him with Josef Martinez and Zlatan Ibrahimovic for the third-most goal contributions in a single MLS season.
With this crucial victory, Inter Miami extends their winning streak to three games and currently sits in third place in the Eastern Conference standings, firmly in contention for a high seed and home-field advantage in the playoffs.
