Lionel Messi creates MLS Cup playoff history in 4-0 win over FC Cincinnati

The Argentine maestro provided a hat-trick of assists in the crucial game.

With a spectacular individual performance, Lionel Messi created MLS Cup playoff history as Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati 4-0 to go to the Eastern Conference finals.

With one goal and three assists for his squad, the 2022 World Cup-winning Argentina legend contributed to every goal, leaving the David Beckham-owned team just two matches away from capturing their first-ever MLS Cup.

In the 19th minute, Messi’s stunning header gave Inter Miami the head start. Former Barcelona full-back Jordi Alba initiated a quick counterattack that resulted in the goal after he intercepted a misdirected pass from Nick Hagglund near midfield.

The Argentina star played a perfectly-weighted ball toward Mateo Silvetti on the left after the Spaniard swiftly located Lionel Messi in a central pocket. Messi responded to the young player’s inch-perfect ball into the box with a bouncing header that beat Roman Celentano, the goalie, and found its way into the far corner.

In the second half, the 38-year-old gave his countryman Silvetti the assist that led to his goal in return. Messi continued to help Inter Miami defeat FC Cincinnati by setting up two more assists for Tadeo Allende.

Lionel Messi creates history in MLS

Lionel Messi made history with a total of four goal contributions in the game, giving him the most goal contributions in MLS Cup playoff history—12.

Since joining Inter Miami in a high-profile deal in 2023, Lionel Messi has undoubtedly improved the team’s fortunes. Under the captain of Argentina, the MLS team, which debuted in 2020 and placed among the top ten clubs in the MLS Eastern Conference, won the MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2024.

Lionel Messi has now guided the Herons to the Eastern Conference finals in the following season, and the team is just two games away from winning its first-ever MLS Cup.

This season, he has also had an incredible run of form, scoring 43 goals and dishing out 23 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions. He has a chance to win the MLS MVP award, making it twice in a row.

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