Lionel Messi’s two goals propelled Inter Miami to a dominant 4-0 victory over New York City, clinching their spot in the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs.
Inter Miami took the lead in the 43rd minute with a goal from Baltasar Rodriguez and added three late goals in the final nine minutes. Messi scored in the 74th and 86th minutes, narrowly missing a hat-trick after he passed up a penalty opportunity in the 83rd minute to his longtime teammate Luis Suarez.
This marks the eighth time in his last 12 games that Messi has netted two or more goals, making him only the fourth player in MLS history to do so in a single season.
Lionel Messi’s two goals
Coach Javier Mascherano expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress: “We are happy because now we have officially qualified for the playoffs. This was very important for us. Now we have to move forward.”
Inter Miami currently holds third place in the Eastern Conference with 55 points from 29 matches, trailing the league leaders Philadelphia Union by two games. Their next key challenge is a crucial match against Toronto FC on Saturday, where a win would bring them closer to securing the Supporters’ Shield.
