Messi’s goal and three assists power Inter Miami to 4–0 thrashing of Cincinnati

Staff Report: PNN

Thanks to Lionel Messi’s outstanding performance and a brace from young forward Tadeo Allende, Inter Miami defeated Cincinnati 4–0 in the MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal, reaching the East Final for the first time.

Another goal came from 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti, who also provided an assist. This marks the most successful playoff run in the club’s history.

Both teams were evenly matched at the start, but in the 19th minute, Jordi Alba created an opportunity. From his interception, Miami launched an attack from the left side, where Messi scored with a header off Silvetti’s perfect cross. After this goal, Miami dominated the match.

Messi now has 6 goals and 6 assists in the postseason, contributing directly to every Miami playoff goal. During the regular season, he scored 29 goals and provided 19 assists, putting him in strong contention for his second MLS MVP award.

In the 57th minute, Silvetti scored with a brilliant curling shot from a side throw, assisted by Messi’s precise pass to Allende. Later, Allende scored twice—first in the 62nd minute from Messi’s perfect pass that split the defense, and again in the 74th minute from a quick counterattack assisted by Messi.

Cincinnati exited the playoffs from their home stadium for the third consecutive season, falling short of reaching the East Final. Meanwhile, Inter Miami achieved back-to-back 4–0 victories, reaching new heights. Their next opponent is New York City FC, who defeated top-seeded Philadelphia 1–0 on the same day to reach the final.