Lionel Messi returned to sparkling form on Saturday, scoring twice and assisting once as Inter Miami routed the New York Red Bulls 5–1 in a dazzling Major League Soccer display at the Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.
The World Cup-winning Argentine, who endured a rare quiet night in Miami’s 3–0 loss to FC Cincinnati midweek, wasted no time reigniting his side’s momentum against the Red Bulls, who initially threatened another upset.
New York struck first through Alexander Hack in the 14th minute, giving the home crowd early hope. But Messi responded in style, orchestrating a remarkable turnaround that saw Inter Miami score five unanswered goals.
In the 24th minute, Messi delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Jordi Alba, who calmly slotted home the equalizer. Just three minutes later, Messi and Alba combined again — this time Alba turned provider, crossing for Telasco Segovia to fire Miami ahead.
Segovia bagged his brace in first-half stoppage time, steering in his second goal of the evening to put Miami 3–1 up at the break.
The second half saw Messi take full command. In the 60th minute, Sergio Busquets, another former Barcelona teammate, split the defense with a stunning through ball. Messi raced clear, deceived Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel with a clever feint, and slotted home to make it 4–1.
Not done yet, Messi capped off the night with a trademark finish in the 75th minute. Luis Suarez, completing the Barcelona reunion, delivered a cross that Messi brought down in the box before smashing into the net for his second goal of the night.
With the win, Inter Miami bounced back emphatically from their recent defeat, and Messi reaffirmed his dominance in the MLS with a masterclass in playmaking and finishing.
What You Should Know
Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a 5–1 victory with two goals and a key assist, rekindling the chemistry with former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez.
The win solidifies Miami’s push in the MLS standings while reaffirming Messi’s unmatched impact on American soccer.
