Lionel Messi once again proved decisive for Inter Miami, scoring twice and setting up another in a 3-2 victory over D.C. United at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday night. The win keeps Javier Mascherano’s side firmly in the hunt for the MLS Supporters’ Shield, while also strengthening their playoff push in the Eastern Conference.
Messi pulls the strings early
Miami struck first in the 35th minute when Messi floated an inch-perfect ball over the defense for Tadeo Allende, who calmly slotted home his eighth goal of the season. It was Messi’s 12th assist of the campaign, placing him among the league’s top creators.
Benteke responds, Messi takes over
D.C. United leveled the score in the 53rd minute through Christian Benteke, who latched on to Brandon Servania’s pass and finished confidently for his ninth goal of the season.
But parity didn’t last long. Messi combined with his former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba to restore Miami’s lead in the 66th minute, cushioning Alba’s pass before finishing into the far corner.
The 38-year-old then delivered the pick of the goals in the 85th minute, curling a trademark left-footed strike into the top corner from outside the box — his 22nd of the season, moving him past Nashville’s Sam Surridge in the Golden Boot race.
Missed hat-trick, late scare
Messi could have had a hat-trick when Miami earned a penalty in the 72nd minute, but he handed the responsibility to fellow Argentine Mateo Silvetti, who smashed his effort against the crossbar.
D.C. United grabbed a stoppage-time lifeline through Jacob Murrell, but it wasn’t enough to deny Miami all three points.
Suarez absence, Miami’s bigger picture
Veteran forward Luis Suárez missed the game due to suspension after an incident in the Leagues Cup final against Seattle Sounders. Despite his absence, Miami’s attacking unit — led by Messi, Alba, and Allende — ensured the goals kept flowing.
With the victory, Miami now sits fifth in the Eastern Conference, just one point behind fourth-placed New York City FC with two games in hand. Mascherano’s side also remains eight points behind Supporters’ Shield leaders Philadelphia Union but crucially has three matches to make up.
Messi’s record-breaking season
Messi’s brace not only pushed him to the top of the MLS scoring charts but also underlined his remarkable influence: 22 goals and 12 assists in just 22 appearances this season.
“Another normal night from Leo, which for anyone else would be extraordinary,” head coach Mascherano said post-match. “He carried us when we needed him most, and that’s the privilege of having him in this team.”
Reports suggest Messi is close to agreeing a contract extension with Inter Miami until 2026, potentially allowing him to lead the side into their new home, Miami Freedom Park, expected to open next year.
Key Match Stats
- Final Score: Inter Miami 3-2 D.C. United
- Inter Miami scorers: Allende (35’), Messi (66’, 85’)
- D.C. United scorers: Benteke (53’), Murrell (90+7’)
- Top Performer: Lionel Messi – 2 goals, 1 assist
