Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance on September 24, 2025, scoring two goals and assisting another in Inter Miami’s 4-0 rout of New York City FC. The win at Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, clinched a 2025 MLS Cup playoff berth for Miami.
Messi’s brilliance shone in the rain-soaked match. In the 43rd minute, his precise through ball set up Baltazar Rodriguez for a 1-0 lead. In the 74th minute, Messi eluded a defender and chipped goalkeeper Matt Freese for his first goal. He struck again in the 86th with a sharply angled shot. Luis Suarez, back from a three-game ban, added a penalty goal.
Messi’s two goals took him to 24 in 23 MLS matches, leading the league’s scoring race ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga (22 goals). His third straight game with a goal and assist strengthens his 2025 MLS MVP candidacy.
🐐 🐐 pic.twitter.com/IwgFSUhZql
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 25, 2025NYCFC dominated early, with Thiago Martins, Aiden O’Neill, and Nicolas Fernandez creating chances but failing to score. Inter Miami capitalised on their wastefulness, with Sergio Busquets feeding Messi and Rodriguez for the opener.
Inter Miami sits third in the Eastern Conference, five points behind leaders Philadelphia with two games in hand. They remain in contention for the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the MLS’s best regular-season team. This marks Messi’s second playoff run with Miami.
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Messi’s performance underscores his global dominance and boosts Inter Miami’s playoff hopes. His leadership keeps the team in the hunt for major honours, thrilling fans and elevating MLS’s profile.
Lionel Messi’s two goals and assist secured Inter Miami’s playoff spot with a 4-0 win over NYCFC. As the MLS season heats up, Miami eyes the Supporters’ Shield.
