Right from the start of the match, Inter Miami quickly took control of the game. Although the visiting team New England caused a stir early with a header hit the bar by Brandon Bye in the 9th minute, it was also a rare moment in which they made the goal of goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo explode. Since then, the game has leaning towards the home team with a series of good combinations between Messi, Luis Suarez and Tadeo Allende.
In the 32nd minute, Inter Miami's persistent attack efforts were rewarded. Messi made a delicate pass for Tadeo Allende to open the scoring. In the first half's extra time, Jordi Alba doubled the gap after a beautiful free-kick combination with Messi himself.
In the second half, although New England shortened thanks to Dor Turgeman's long-range shot in the 59th minute, just one minute later, Messi shined with the third assist for Allende to score a double, raising the score to 3-1. Without stopping, Alba completed his own double in the 63rd minute, ending Inter Miami's 4-1 victory.
This result helped coach Rafael Mascherano's team rise to 3rd place in the rankings with 59 points.
With Messi's excellent form and the understanding of the attacking trio Allende - Suarez - Alba, Inter Miami is showing that they are one of the leading candidates for the MLS championship this season.
