Quick Read
- Lionel Messi scored and assisted three times in Inter Miami’s 4-0 win over FC Cincinnati.
- Messi set a new MLS playoff record with 12 goal contributions (six goals, six assists).
- Inter Miami advances to their first Eastern Conference final, hosting New York City FC.
- Miami dominated key stats, registering seven shots on goal to Cincinnati’s four.
- Messi’s performance was praised as ‘practically perfect’ by coach Javier Mascherano.
Messi’s Magic Powers Inter Miami to the Brink of MLS Glory
It was a night to remember in Cincinnati, as Lionel Messi showed once again why he’s revered as one of the greatest footballers of all time. With Inter Miami chasing their first-ever MLS Cup final appearance, Messi orchestrated a 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference semifinals, scoring once and assisting all three other goals. The performance not only sent Miami into their inaugural conference final, but also saw Messi set a new MLS playoff record with 12 goal contributions—six goals and six assists.
A Vintage Display Under Pressure
On Sunday, November 23, 2025, Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium was packed with over 26,000 fans—most hoping to witness an upset. Instead, they saw Messi at his most clinical and creative. The Argentine maestro broke his recent scoring drought against Cincinnati in the 19th minute, heading home a pinpoint cross from teenager Mateo Silvetti. The goal was Messi’s 11th in his last seven games—a run of form that’s fueled Miami’s surge through the playoffs.
Messi’s impact went far beyond his goal. He dictated the tempo, found pockets of space, and repeatedly unlocked Cincinnati’s defense. Just before the half-hour, he nearly doubled Miami’s lead, advancing into the box but sending his shot wide. But his intent was clear: he was not content to merely score—he wanted to elevate his team.
Assists, Records, and Ruthless Precision
Inter Miami’s second goal came in the 57th minute, when Messi picked out Silvetti at the edge of the area. Silvetti, who started ahead of veteran Luis Suarez, curled home a fine finish to make it 2-0. With Cincinnati increasingly desperate to claw back, Messi found more room to maneuver. On 62 minutes, he threaded a pass to Tadeo Allende, who converted for Miami’s third goal. The fourth came in the 74th, as Messi timed his run perfectly to spring the offside trap and set up Allende again.
Coach Javier Mascherano, himself a legendary Argentine, didn’t mince words in his post-match assessment. “It’s an honor and a privilege not only to manage Leo but this group of players. We know what Leo is capable of; he proves it every weekend. Today, he did another incredible job off the ball, because we already know what he’s capable of with it,” Mascherano said, as cited by The Hindu and Indian Express.
Messi’s four direct goal involvements on the night brought his MLS playoff tally to 12—an all-time record. For a player whose legacy was already assured, this feat further cements his status as a transformative figure in American soccer.
Cincinnati’s Missed Opportunities and Miami’s Rising Confidence
Cincinnati started brightly, with Kevin Denkey and Ender Echenique both missing early chances. The game’s narrative quickly shifted after Messi’s opener, and the home team struggled to recover. Head coach Pat Noonan summed up the disappointment: “Tough night to end this way. They were better tonight. To the fans, sorry how it ended. It’s disappointing. You have to own it.”
Miami dominated key metrics, registering seven shots on goal to Cincinnati’s four. The team’s pace and precision were evident, with young talents like Silvetti stepping up alongside Messi and Allende. As Mascherano noted, “The players showed incredible character and played a practically perfect match.”
Looking Ahead: MLS Cup Aspirations
The win sets up a tantalizing clash with New York City FC, who booked their spot in the Eastern Conference final by edging Philadelphia Union 1-0, courtesy of a goal from Maxi Moralez. Miami will host NYCFC next Saturday, with the winner advancing to the MLS Cup final on December 6. Vancouver awaits in the Western Conference final, facing either San Diego or Minnesota United.
The stakes are enormous for Miami, a club that only recently entered the league but is now powered by the global stardom and relentless drive of Messi. The atmosphere in Miami is electric, with fans dreaming of a championship and a new chapter in the city’s sporting history.
For Messi, this is another proving ground—a chance to add yet another trophy to an already overflowing cabinet, and to inspire the next generation of footballers in North America.
Messi’s performance against Cincinnati wasn’t just another highlight in a storied career—it was a masterclass in leadership, adaptability, and excellence under pressure. By setting new records and lifting his teammates to new heights, Messi continues to redefine what’s possible, not only for Inter Miami but for Major League Soccer itself.