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Argentine captain Lionel Messi scored twice and contributed to two other goals as Inter Miami defeated Football Club Cincinnati 5-3 in a Major League Soccer (MLS) clash on Wednesday.
Messi, who has been in impressive form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, took his tally to 11 goals in 12 league appearances this season as Miami climbed to second place in the Eastern Conference with 25 points.
The Argentine forward opened the scoring in the 24th minute after capitalising on a poor clearance from Matt Miazga. Cincinnati, however, drew level before the break through Kevin Denkey’s penalty in the 41st minute.
The hosts went ahead shortly after half-time when Pavel Bucha finished from close range, but Messi restored parity in the 55th minute after finishing off a flowing move from a Rodrigo De Paul cross.
Brazilian midfielder Evander fired Cincinnati back in front in the 64th minute with a long-range strike, extending his scoring streak to seven goals in six matches.
Miami responded again as Messi set up fellow Argentine Mateo Silvetti for the equaliser in the 79th minute before Mexico international German Berterame made it 4-3.
Messi was also involved in Miami’s fifth goal late in the game after his effort from Silvetti’s cross came off the post and deflected into the net off goalkeeper Roman Celentano for an own goal.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos praised his team’s performance, describing the victory as impressive against a difficult opponent on a challenging pitch.
According to him, the players showed commitment and quality and were determined to uphold the standard of football in MLS.
“What they did today was brilliant, against a tough team and on a difficult pitch,” he said.
“It’s very hard to play here. It’s clear they’re not here to stroll around MLS.
“They’re here to play, to give everything, and to show the world that football is played here too.”
He added: “We’re leaving very happy.
“We were able to play football at a very high level.”
