Reports this week suggest Messi is close to signing a new deal that will keep him in Miami until at least next year. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner showed why both the club and the league want him to stay.
At 38 years old, Messi now has 22 goals in 22 games this season. With his seventh brace of the campaign, he moved to the top of the MLS scoring chart, overtaking England’s Sam Surridge of Nashville, who has 21.
Miami coach Javier Mascherano said, “For him it was just a normal night, but for any other player it would be special. His talent is not just about scoring, but also about making the team play better, creating chances, and carrying the team when we face problems. That’s the benefit of having him, and today we made the most of it.”
On a rainy night at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Miami controlled the game from the start against a DC United side already out of playoff contention.
The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Messi sent a perfect through ball to Tadeo Allende, who calmly beat goalkeeper Luis Barraza with his first touch and placed the ball into the right corner.
Christian Benteke scored a header for the visiting team to equalize in the 52nd minute.
Later, Messi created two quick chances that were saved by Barraza. In the 66th minute, Messi got a pass from Jordi Alba inside the box and turned to score with a left-footed shot, putting Inter Miami back in the lead.
Just two minutes after coming on in the 69th minute, Argentine Mateo Silvetti was fouled in the penalty area by Barraza. The referee awarded a penalty, and the 19-year-old took the kick, but unfortunately, it hit the crossbar.
“Leo gave the penalty to Toto (Silvetti) as a kind gesture to let him score his first goal, which is great, even though he missed,” Mascherano said. He added that Messi often does this in his career to involve teammates who need it more than him.
Later, in the 85th minute, Messi extended Miami’s lead to 3-1 with his usual brilliance. He received a pass just outside the box, got past his defender, and lifted the ball over Barraza into the net.
It turned out to be crucial, as Jacob Murrell scored for DC United in the 7th minute of stoppage time, reducing Miami’s lead to just one goal.
With this win, Inter Miami, described by Mascherano as “very important,” moved up to fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points. However, they still have to wait to confirm their playoff spot, as the New York Red Bulls beat Montreal 2-0.
FAQ
Who scored for Inter Miami in the match against DC United?
Lionel Messi scored twice for Inter Miami in their win over DC United.
What was the significance of Messi’s goals?
Messi’s goals helped Miami secure a crucial victory, keeping their playoff hopes alive in the MLS Eastern Conference.
Did DC United score in the match?
Yes, Jacob Murrell scored for DC United in the 7th minute of stoppage time.
What position did Inter Miami move to after this win?
Inter Miami moved up to fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points.
Has Miami secured their playoff spot yet?
No, Miami must wait to confirm their playoff berth as the New York Red Bulls also won their match.
