Messi Shines with Two Goals in Miami’s Crucial Win over DC United

Lionel Messi once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, delivering a masterclass performance as Inter Miami edged past DC United 3-2 on Saturday. The Argentine superstar scored two exquisite goals and assisted another, helping his team take a significant step closer to securing a spot in the MLS Cup playoffs. On a rainy night at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Miami dominated from the beginning, facing a DC United side that had already been eliminated from playoff contention. Messi’s brilliance shone through every aspect of the game, from his precise passing to his clinical finishing, reaffirming his status as the driving force behind Miami’s success this season.

At 38 years old, Messi’s remarkable consistency continues, with the forward now boasting 22 goals in 22 games this season. This match marked his seventh brace of the campaign, moving him to the top of the MLS scoring chart, overtaking England’s Sam Surridge of Nashville, who has 21 goals. Reports earlier this week suggested that Messi is close to signing a new deal that will extend his stay in Miami until at least next year. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s impact on the club and the league is undeniable, as both his goal-scoring prowess and ability to elevate his teammates make him a truly invaluable asset.

Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s influence, saying, “For him, it was just a normal night, but for any other player it would be special. His talent is not just about scoring, but also about making the team play better, creating chances, and carrying the team when we face problems. That’s the benefit of having him, and today we made the most of it.” Messi’s presence on the field creates opportunities not only for himself but also for his teammates, making the team more cohesive and dangerous in attack.

The opening goal came in the 35th minute when Messi delivered a perfect through ball to Tadeo Allende. The young forward calmly finished with his first touch, placing the ball into the right corner past DC United goalkeeper Luis Barraza. However, the visitors responded in the second half, with Christian Benteke scoring a header in the 52nd minute to level the match. Miami continued to press, and Messi’s creativity was key in creating chances. In the 66th minute, he received a pass from Jordi Alba inside the box and expertly turned to score with a left-footed shot, putting Miami back in the lead.

Two minutes after coming on in the 69th minute, Mateo Silvetti was fouled in the penalty area, earning a spot-kick. Messi, in a generous gesture, allowed the 19-year-old to take the penalty, aiming to give him his first professional goal, although it hit the crossbar. Mascherano highlighted Messi’s selflessness, noting that he often empowers teammates who need confidence and opportunity.

Messi added another moment of magic in the 85th minute, receiving a pass just outside the box, dribbling past his defender, and lifting the ball over Barraza to extend Miami’s lead to 3-1. Despite a late goal from Jacob Murrell in stoppage time, the win was enough to propel Inter Miami to fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points. Mascherano described the victory as “very important,” though the team will have to wait to confirm its playoff berth after the New York Red Bulls defeated Montreal 2-0.

Messi’s performance not only secured three crucial points but also highlighted why the club is eager to retain him. His combination of skill, vision, and leadership continues to make Inter Miami a formidable contender in the MLS, and his presence remains central to the team’s playoff aspirations. With Messi in form, Miami’s fans have every reason to believe that their team is poised for a strong finish to the season.