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Messi Brace Powers Inter Miami to 5-3 Win Over FC Cincinnati

Lionel Messi scored a brace to lead Inter Miami to a 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati, extending their away winning streak to seven games. The win moved Inter Miami to second in the MLS standings with 25 points, two behind leaders Nashville. Cincinnati took the lead three times, but goals from substitutes Mateo Silvetti and German Berterame secured the comeback for Miami. Messi's shot in the 89th minute was ruled an own goal, sealing the win and marking his 21st multi-goal game in MLS.

Key Points: Messi Brace Powers Inter Miami to 5-3 Win

  • Messi scores two goals and provides key assist
  • Inter Miami wins 5-3 away, extending streak to seven
  • Team moves to second in MLS standings with 25 points
  • Cincinnati suffers rare loss when leading after 75 minutes
2 min read

MLS: Messi brace powers Inter Miami to 5-3 win over FC Cincinnati

Lionel Messi's brace leads Inter Miami to a 5-3 win over FC Cincinnati, extending their away winning streak to seven and reaching second in MLS.

"Speaking about Leo is truly striking, first because of the person he is, and second because of the player you see on the pitch. - Guillermo Hoyos"

Cincinnati, May 14

A brace from Lionel Messi helped Inter Miami secure a 5-3 win over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, reaching the second spot on the table.

With this win, Messi's men have extended their away winning streak to seven. They are placed second in the Major League Soccer (MLS) with seven wins, two losses and four draws, giving them 25 points. They are still two points behind table-toppers Nashville, who have 27 points after 12 games.

It is the third time this season that Messi has made at least three contributions during a match, including an assist. He has scored 12 goals so far and is placed second among leading goal-scorers, as per ESPN. It is his 21st multi-goal game in MLS, extending his record for most such matches since his club debut in 2023.

Messi started off with a goal in the 24th minute, but a penalty conversion from Kevin Denkey (41st minute) and Pavel Bucha (49th minute) pushed Inter Miami on the back foot. However, in the 55th minute, Messi levelled the scores.

Evander brought Cincinnati to a lead once again in the 64th minute. However, goals from substitute Mateo Silvetti (79th minute) and German Berterame (84th minute) helped Inter Miami make a comeback. Messi seemed to have got a hat-trick in the 89th minute, but his shot went off the post and deflected off Celentano, but at the end of the match, it was adjudged to be an own goal on the part of FC Cincinnati, giving Inter Miami a 5-3 win.

As per Goal.com, it is the first time in 64 games since Pat Noonan became coach in 2023 that Cincinnati lost the match when it held the lead after 75 minutes.

"Speaking about Leo is truly striking, first because of the person he is, and second because of the player you see on the pitch," Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said after the match as quoted by ESPN.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As a football fan from India, I love watching MLS now because of Messi. But honestly, the defense looks shaky. Three goals conceded is not ideal. Hope they fix that before playoffs.
J
James A
Incredible performance by Messi. That own goal was unlucky for Cincinnati, but Inter Miami deserved the win. The away streak is impressive.
V
Vikram M
Watching Messi play live in MLS is a dream come true for Indian fans like me who grew up watching him in La Liga. His assist and two goals show he's still class. But I wish India's ISL could attract such big names someday.
S
Sarah B
Great match! Messi is magic. But Cincinnati fought hard too. MLS is getting more competitive every season. Good for the sport.
R
Rohit P
People in India still debate if Messi or Ronaldo is better. This performance just adds fuel to that fire! 🔥 Crazy that he's doing this in a different continent at 37. Respect.
K
Kavya N
I have to question the coaching though. Inter Miami conceded three goals despite having Messi up front. They need better balance. Hoyos should focus on defense as much as attack. Just my two paise.

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