Lionel Messi’s brilliance on the field was on full display as he powered Inter Miami to a commanding 4-0 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday night. With this win, Miami clinched a coveted spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs, thanks largely to Messi’s MLS-leading 23rd and 24th goals in the season, along with his 13th assist. His remarkable contribution continues to highlight his undeniable influence in Major League Soccer.
Luis Suarez, returning from a three-game suspension, added a crucial seventh goal for Miami, converting a late penalty that sealed the victory for the Herons. This goal came at a pivotal moment, helping Miami (16-6-7, 55 points) leapfrog both NYCFC (16-10-5, 53 points) and Charlotte, securing third place in the fiercely competitive Eastern Conference standings.
Baltasar Rodriguez also made a significant impact, scoring his second goal of the season, which further extended Miami’s advantage in the match. Miami now trails Philadelphia by just five points but holds the advantage of having two games in hand—the East and Supporters’ Shield leaders remain the team to beat in the conference.
New York City FC experienced a setback, snapping their three-game winning streak and failing to score for the first time in 10 league matches. As a result, NYCFC dropped one spot to fifth place in the Eastern Conference, struggling to maintain their momentum in the race for playoff positioning.
The match showcased exceptional teamwork, particularly from Sergio Busquets, who contributed two assists in Miami’s third consecutive win since suffering a 3-0 defeat at Charlotte on September 13. Miami’s resurgence has seen them outscore opponents 10-3 in their last three matches, with Messi directly responsible for five goals while conceding three—a testament to his offensive prowess.
Messi remains the MLS goal-scoring leader, positioning himself two goals ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and three goals ahead of Nashville’s Sam Surridge. However, his role as a playmaker was just as vital in this match. Before scoring, Messi assisted on Rodriguez’s opening goal, a beautifully orchestrated play that unfolded through the middle of New York’s defense.
The goal itself was a textbook example of quick thinking and precise execution. Busquets intercepted a pass in midfield and immediately fed the ball to Messi, who received it with one touch, turned towards the goal, and delivered a perfectly timed pass to Rodriguez. The young forward’s calm finish inside the penalty box put Miami ahead just before halftime.
Messi’s first goal came in the 74th minute after an exquisite throughball from Busquets allowed him to chip the approaching goalkeeper Matt Freese with ease. His second goal, which completed the scoring, arrived 12 minutes later as he skillfully dribbled past defenders, aided by plays from Marcelo Weigandt and Suarez, who acted as a decoy to create space.
This match was a showcase for Inter Miami’s developing chemistry and tactical precision, spearheaded by the genius of Lionel Messi and the experience of players like Suarez and Busquets. The team’s collective effort and individual brilliance have set them apart as strong playoff contenders in this MLS season.
