Lionel Messi orchestrated a football masterclass, setting a new Major League Soccer (MLS) record by delivering five assists in a single match, propelling Inter Miami to a dominant 6-1 victory over New York Red Bulls at Chase Stadium on Saturday.
The spectacle, however, did not stop at Messi’s playmaking prowess. Luis Suarez, pairing with Messi, turned in a hat-trick performance that, despite its brilliance, played second fiddle to the Argentine maestro’s historic feat. Messi’s combination of goal-scoring and assist-making highlighted his continuing influence in his debut MLS season, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
The match began with a shock as the visitors took the lead in the 30th minute. New York Red Bulls’ Dante Vanzeir capitalized on a rebound off the far post, firing a first-time shot past the keeper. However, this early setback only seemed to galvanize Inter Miami, particularly its star player Messi.
The equalizer came when Matias Rojas received a precise pass from Messi and curled a stunning 20-yard shot into the top-right corner of the net. The goal not only leveled the score but also kickstarted the Messi show. He soon added a goal to his name, connecting with a pass from Suarez and firing in from 12 yards to give Inter Miami the lead.
As the match progressed, Messi’s vision and precise distribution continually dismantled the Red Bulls’ defense. His second assist of the night was a sublime through ball to Rojas, who elegantly chipped the goalkeeper to extend the lead. The understanding between Messi and Suarez then came to the fore, as Suarez converted a spectacular volley from Messi’s lofted cross into the far corner.
The duo wasn’t done yet. Their seamless link-up play continued, culminating in Suarez’s second and Inter Miami’s fifth goal, a smooth finish following a series of slick passes. Suarez completed his hat-trick, and Messi his record-setting fifth assist, by setting up the Uruguayan for a rounded finish past Carlos Coronel.
The Red Bulls managed a late consolation when Emil Forsberg scored from the penalty spot, but the night belonged indisputably to Inter Miami and, most of all, to Lionel Messi. His record of five assists in a game is a new benchmark in MLS and underscores his transformative impact on his team and the league.
This stunning performance leaves Inter Miami three points clear at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, with Messi having contributed 12 goals and 11 assists in just 11 games this season. Suarez has been almost equally prolific, with 12 goals and seven assists in 15 appearances.
As Inter Miami continues to build on their impressive form, the synergy between Messi and Suarez, both legends of the game, suggests that the best may still be yet to come for the MLS newcomers. This record-setting night in Miami not only cements Messi’s legacy but also signals a bright future for soccer in the U.S.
