Lionel Messi had a hand in all four goals — scoring once and providing three assists — as Inter Miami thrashed FC Cincinnati 4–0 to reach their first-ever Eastern Conference final.
According to a report from Al Jazeera, Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance as Inter Miami dismantled FC Cincinnati 4–0 in Sunday’s Major League Soccer Eastern Conference semifinal.
The Argentine forward scored in the 19th minute — heading Mateo Silvetti’s cross past Roman Celentano — before assisting three more goals to seal Miami’s spot in the East final.
Silvetti, 19, capitalised on Messi’s layoff in the 57th minute to curl a brilliant effort into the far corner and double Miami’s lead.
Then, Tadeo Allende completed his brace in the second half, netting in the 62nd and 74th minutes — both times finding the net from Messi’s passes.
This win marked a landmark moment in club history, as Miami reached the Eastern Conference final for the first time.
The youthful front line — led by Messi, Silvetti and Allende — looked dynamic throughout, and manager Javier Mascherano’s decision to omit Luis Suárez from the starting XI paid off handsomely.
Messi’s influence in the match extended beyond the scoresheet; with six goals and six assists in the postseason so far, he has contributed to every Miami goal this campaign.