MLS: Messi Shines as Inter Miami Crush NYCFC 4-0 to Seal Playoff Spot

Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass on Wednesday night, scoring twice and assisting once as Inter Miami eased past New York City FC 4-0 to secure an MLS Cup playoff berth.

The Argentine captain’s brace lifted him to the top of the league scoring charts with 24 goals in 23 appearances, surpassing LAFC’s Denis Bouanga. Luis Suárez also netted on his return from a three-game suspension, while 22-year-old Baltazar Rodriguez opened the scoring for Miami.

Played at a rain-soaked Citi Field, home of Major League Baseball’s New York Mets, Miami struggled early before Rodriguez broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute after latching onto Messi’s incisive through ball.

Messi then took over in the second half, chipping New York goalkeeper Matt Freese in the 74th minute before Suárez extended the lead from the spot. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner struck again in the 86th with a pinpoint angled finish to complete the rout.

NYCFC created several chances but failed to capitalise, with Nicolas Fernandez hitting the post and Thiago Martins forcing a fine save from Oscar Ustari. Their wastefulness proved costly as Miami punished them with clinical finishing.

The victory keeps Miami third in the Eastern Conference, five points behind leaders Philadelphia Union with two games in hand, keeping their hopes of winning the Supporters’ Shield alive.

Messi, now with three straight games of at least one goal and assist, has further strengthened his case for the 2025 MLS Most Valuable Player award.