In a dazzling display of talent and determination, Lionel Messi propelled Inter Miami to a thrilling 3-2 victory against DC United, notching his 21st and 22nd goals of the season while also contributing his 12th assist. This impressive performance solidified his position at the top of the Major League Soccer (MLS) scoring charts, further establishing Messi’s impact in the league.
The match, held on a vibrant Saturday night, saw Tadeo Allende open the scoring for Miami, marking a significant moment as the team secured back-to-back victories for the first time since a three-game winning streak in early July. With this win, Inter Miami improved their record to 15 wins, 6 losses, and 7 draws, accumulating a total of 52 points and climbing to fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings. They remain eight points behind conference leaders Philadelphia, despite having three matches in hand.
DC United’s Christian Benteke, who scored his eighth goal of the season and provided an assist, temporarily leveled the match at 1-1 early in the second half, but it was Messi’s brilliance that ultimately shone through. After Benteke’s equalizer in the 53rd minute, Messi quickly restored Miami’s lead in the 66th minute, showcasing his exceptional skill and awareness on the pitch.
In a well-executed play, Jordi Alba, having received a pass from Ian Fray, expertly found Messi, who had cleverly maneuvered back into play from an offside position. With defenders closing in, Messi turned and calmly slotted the ball past DC United’s goalkeeper, Luis Barraza. This goal not only demonstrated his technical ability but also his strategic positioning and awareness of the game.
The intensity of the match continued to build, with Miami pushing for more goals. In the 72nd minute, Mateo Silvetti came close to adding another for Miami, striking the crossbar with a penalty he earned after a challenge in the box. However, it was Messi who provided the insurance goal that fans and teammates were yearning for in the 85th minute. This time, after receiving a pass from Sergio Busquets, Messi displayed his signature dribbling skills, taking on a defender before unleashing a powerful shot from the edge of the area that found the top left corner of the net.
As the match progressed, DC United managed to add a late consolation goal through substitute Jacob Murrell. Nonetheless, the night belonged to Messi, whose performance not only secured the win for Miami but also elevated him above Nashville’s Sam Surridge in the MLS Golden Boot race. Surridge, who started the night with 21 goals, was unable to find the back of the net in his team’s 3-2 defeat to Orlando.
Messi’s ability to consistently threaten the opposition goal was evident throughout the match, as he forced Barraza into several crucial saves, further underscoring his status as one of the league’s premier players. With this performance, Messi has not only solidified his position within the league but has also contributed to the growing excitement and popularity of soccer in the United States.
As Inter Miami continues to chase playoff aspirations, the contributions of stars like Messi will be vital. The team is now looking to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, aiming to secure a spot in the postseason and continue their rise in the Eastern Conference. With Messi leading the charge, fans can expect more thrilling moments and unforgettable performances in the weeks to come.
