Messi scores a brace as Miami beats Cincinnati 5-3 in MLS

Lionel Messi scored twice and assisted twice as Inter Miami rallied to a 5‑3 victory over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday in the MLS.

With the World Cup in North America scheduled to begin in less than a month, Argentina captain Messi is displaying impressive form. He has netted 11 goals in 12 MLS matches this season, and the win moves Miami to second place in the Eastern Conference with 25 points.

Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute, capitalising on a rebound after a poor clearance by Matt Miazga. The match was level 1‑1 at half‑time when Kevin Denkey converted a penalty in the 41st minute. Pavel Bucha then gave the hosts a 2‑1 lead shortly after the break.

In the 55th minute, Messi finished a flowing attack with a left‑footed shot from a cross by Rodrigo De Paul. Cincinnati’s Brazilian playmaker Evander restored the hosts’ advantage with a long‑range strike in the 64th minute, his seventh goal in six matches.

Messi set up a goal for young Argentine Mateo Silvetti in the 79th minute, and Mexico international German Berterame added a fourth for the visitors. The final goal came in the 89th minute when Messi forced an own goal: he struck a cross from Silvetti, the ball hit the post and deflected into the net off goalkeeper Roman Celentano.

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos praised his side: “What they did today was brilliant, against a tough team and on a difficult pitch. It’s very hard to play here. It’s clear they’re not here to stroll around MLS. They’re here to play, to give everything, and to show the world that football is played here too.” He added, “We’re leaving very happy. We were able to play football at a very high level.”

The post In-form Messi hits brace as Miami win 5-3 at Cincinnati in MLS appeared first on Vanguard News.