Argentina captain Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass in Major League Soccer, scoring twice and playing a decisive role in two additional goals as Inter Miami CF produced a stunning 5–3 comeback victory over FC Cincinnati away from home on Wednesday night.
The result further highlighted Messi’s sharp form ahead of the upcoming World Cup in North America, with the 38-year-old now up to 11 goals in 12 MLS appearances this season.
The win also lifted Inter Miami into second place in the Eastern Conference on 25 points.
Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute after reacting quickest to a loose clearance from Matt Miazga, finishing from a rebound to put the visitors ahead.
However, Cincinnati restored parity before the break when Kevin Denkey converted from the penalty spot in the 41st minute, sending the sides into half-time at 1–1.
The hosts then took control early in the second half through Pavel Bucha, who finished from close range to make it 2–1.
Messi responded almost immediately, levelling the contest in the 55th minute with a composed left-footed finish after a flowing move involving Rodrigo De Paul.
Momentum swung again when Evander unleashed a powerful strike from distance in the 64th minute to put Cincinnati back in front at 3–2, marking his seventh goal in six matches.
Inter Miami, however, refused to back down. Messi turned provider in the 79th minute, setting up young Argentine Mateo Silvetti to bring the visitors level once more, before German Berterame struck to give Miami a 4–3 advantage.
The Argentine icon then had a hand in the final goal in the 89th minute, as Silvetti’s cross saw Messi throw himself at the ball, with his effort striking the post before deflecting in off goalkeeper Roman Celentano for an own goal that sealed the 5–3 result.
Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos praised his team’s performance, describing it as a high-level display in difficult conditions.
He noted the intensity of the opposition and stressed that his side had shown their quality and mentality to secure a hard-fought win on the road.
