Lionel Messi delivered a stunning performance with one goal and three assists to lead Inter Miami to a commanding 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati in the MLS Eastern Conference semifinal on November 23, 2025. This win at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati propelled Miami to their first-ever conference final, showcasing Messi’s magic in front of a packed crowd.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
Inter Miami started strong and never looked back in this playoff clash. Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a precise header after a pass from Mateo Silvetti. That early strike set the tone for Miami’s dominance.
The second goal came soon after when Messi assisted Silvetti, who fired a powerful shot into the net from the left side. Tadeo Allende then added two more goals in the 62nd and 74th minutes, both set up by Messi’s pinpoint passes. FC Cincinnati struggled to create chances, managing few threats against Miami’s solid defense.
Luis Suarez entered as a substitute late in the game, replacing Allende to help close out the match. The home team, despite their strong regular season, could not match Miami’s intensity on this night.
- Messi’s header in the 19th minute: A clever finish that silenced the home fans.
- Silvetti’s rocket shot: Boosted Miami’s lead before halftime.
- Allende’s double: Sealed the deal with clinical strikes from Messi’s assists.
Messi’s Record-Breaking Night
Lionel Messi stole the show and etched his name deeper into MLS history. His goal and three assists brought his playoff contributions to 12 this postseason, breaking the league record for most in a single playoffs with six goals and six assists overall.
At 38 years old, Messi continues to defy expectations in his third season with Inter Miami. He created eight chances, completed two successful dribbles, and won four duels during the match. His rating soared to 9.7, highlighting his impact on both ends of the field.
This performance adds to Messi’s impressive 2025 stats, where he notched 71 goals and assists in 52 games across all competitions. Fans and analysts alike praised his vision and skill, calling it one of his best outings in the MLS.
Experts note that Messi’s form has lifted Inter Miami from mid-table struggles to playoff contenders. His leadership on the pitch has inspired teammates and drawn global attention to the league.
Team Efforts and Coaching Insights
Inter Miami’s success was not just about Messi. Coach Javier Mascherano prepared his squad well, overcoming their regular season failures against Cincinnati. Miami lost 3-0 away and drew 0-0 at home earlier in 2025, but playoffs brought a different energy.
Defenders held firm, limiting Cincinnati to minimal shots on goal. Goalkeeper Drake Callender made key saves to preserve the clean sheet. The team’s unity shone through, with players like Silvetti and Allende stepping up alongside their star captain.
FC Cincinnati, winners of the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, ended their season on a disappointing note. They had the second-best record in MLS this year but faltered in the playoffs for the second straight time.
| Player | Goals | Assists | Key Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 1 | 3 | 8 chances created, 2 dribbles |
| Tadeo Allende | 2 | 0 | 2 goals from assists |
| Mateo Silvetti | 1 | 1 | Scored and assisted |
| Luis Suarez | 0 | 0 | Late substitute appearance |
Road to the MLS Cup
This victory sets up an exciting Eastern Conference final for Inter Miami against New York City FC on November 29, 2025, at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. NYCFC advanced by defeating the Philadelphia Union, promising a thrilling matchup.
Miami aims for their first MLS Cup title, building on recent successes like the 2023 Leagues Cup win. A win here would send them to the championship game on December 6.
The Western Conference final features LA Galaxy versus Seattle Sounders, adding to the playoff drama. Fans expect more fireworks as teams battle for glory.
Fan Reactions and Broader Impact
Social media buzzed with excitement after the game. Supporters hailed Messi’s “unbelievable form” and shared clips of his assists. The win boosted Inter Miami’s global following, with viewership spiking for MLS playoffs.
This match highlights soccer’s growing popularity in the US, especially with stars like Messi drawing new fans. It also underscores the league’s competitive nature, where underdogs can rise.
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