Goal and Three Assists as Inter Miami Rout Cincinnati 4-0 to Host Eastern

USA — Argentine superstar Lionel Messi put on a spectacular display of pace and precision, contributing to all four goals (one goal, three assists) as Inter Miami CF secured a dominant 4-0 rout of second-seed FC Cincinnati on Sunday.

The win in front of a sold-out crowd at TQL Stadium sends third-seeded Miami into their first-ever Eastern Conference Championship game, where they will host New York City FC next Saturday, after NYCFC defeated top-seed Philadelphia Union 1-0 in the other semifinal.

Messi’s performance cemented his legendary status in MLS history, with his contributions setting a new MLS playoff record for goal involvement in a single postseason campaign.

Miami coach Javier Mascherano hailed the showing, describing it as “practically perfect.”

“It’s an honor and a privilege not only to manage Leo but this group of players,” Mascherano said. “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.”

The dominance began in the 19th minute when Messi coolly headed home a pinpoint cross from Argentine teenager Mateo Silvetti, who started in place of the veteran Luis Suarez.

In the second half, Messi transitioned into pure playmaker, assisting the final three goals:

57th Minute: Messi found Silvetti on the edge of the area, who curled home to make it 2-0.

62nd and 74th Minutes: Messi threaded a pass and then sprang the offside trap twice to set up Tadeo Allende for a decisive brace.

Miami, heading into the final fixture brimming with confidence, is now just one victory away from the MLS Cup championship game on December 6.