After the regrettable reverse defeat to Orlando City, Inter Miami regained the joy of victory thanks to Lionel Messi's outstanding performance. The Argentine striker scored 1 goal and had 2 assists, thereby helping Inter Miami take a 4-0 lead right at BMO stadium.
Notably, Messi also reached the milestone of 100 times contributing to MLS goals in just 64 matches, becoming the player to achieve this achievement fastest in the history of the league. The old record belonged to Sebastian Giovinco with 95 matches for Toronto FC.
In the exciting atmosphere with more than 45,000 spectators at BMO stadium, Messi became the focus in every touch of the ball. The home team entered the game fiercely to limit Inter Miami's ability to organize attacks, but still encountered many difficulties before the mobility of the 38-year-old superstar.
After many missed opportunities, Inter Miami opened the score in the 44th minute thanks to Rodrigo De Paul. The Argentine midfielder took advantage of a free kick that bounced over the wall to finish successfully, putting the away team ahead before halftime.
Stepping into the second half, Messi continuously created a difference. In the 55th minute, he assisted Luis Suarez to increase the score to 2-0 after a speedy counter-attack. In the 72nd minute, Messi continued to pass a favorable through ball for Sergio Reguilon to score the first goal in MLS, helping Inter Miami lead 3-0.
Just two minutes later, Messi himself directly scored after De Paul's assist, increasing the gap to 4 goals for the away team.
However, Inter Miami's defense still revealed gaps at the end of the match. Emilio Aristizabal scored 2 consecutive goals in the 82nd and 90th minutes to narrow the score to 2-4 for Toronto FC. However, the home team could not create a comeback and accepted defeat right at home.
This victory helps Inter Miami return to the leading group in the MLS Eastern Conference with 22 points after 12 matches. In the next round, Messi and his teammates will be guests against FC Cincinnati on May 13.
