Lionel Messi produced yet another mesmerizing display, netting twice and providing an assist to lead Inter Miami CF to a stunning 5-1 comeback victory over the New York Red Bulls in a thrilling MLS clash on Saturday.
The win, powered by the Argentine superstar’s brilliance, reinforced Miami’s status as a strong contender in the Eastern Conference.
The match began with an early surprise as New York Red Bulls took the lead through German defender Alexander Hack, who capitalized on a corner kick to score with a well-placed volley.
However, Inter Miami responded quickly, with their attacking rhythm gaining momentum under Messi’s direction. The equalizer came when Messi delivered a masterful through ball to Jordi Alba. The Spanish left-back showed excellent control before finishing into the far corner to make it 1-1.
Momentum then shifted decisively in Miami’s favor. Moments later, Alba turned provider with a smart cut-back for Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia, who scored his first goal of the night. Segovia added his second just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to strike from distance and extend the lead to 3-1.
In the second half, Messi once again took center stage. After receiving a precise pass from Sergio Busquets, the 38-year-old calmly evaded the goalkeeper and tapped the ball into an open net for his first goal of the night.
He later sealed his brace in the 75th minute, chesting down a cross from Luis Suarez and smashing it into the top corner to complete a dominant showing.
With this latest double, Messi has now recorded multiple goals in six of his last seven MLS matches, bringing his season total to 18 goals and seven assists in just 18 appearances.
Inter Miami’s head coach Javier Mascherano expressed deep admiration for his captain, acknowledging Messi’s continued impact and legendary status in world football. He remarked that witnessing such performances up close was a privilege for everyone involved.
Following the victory, Inter Miami climbed to fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 41 points, while holding three games in hand over top-ranked Cincinnati. The Red Bulls, on the other hand, slipped to ninth position, now trailing Miami by eight points in a competitive playoff race.