Messi Shines with Two Goals in Inter Miami’s Victory

HARRISON: Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance, scoring twice and assisting on two other goals, propelling Inter Miami to a dominant 5-1 triumph over the New York Red Bulls in their Major League Soccer (MLS) encounter on Saturday at Red Bull Arena.

The Red Bulls initially took the lead in the 15th minute when Emil Forsberg’s well-placed corner kick disrupted the view of Miami’s goalkeeper, Rocco Rios Novo.

Alexander Hack seized the opportunity and successfully scored, despite tight defense from Federico Redondo.

However, Inter Miami mounted a decisive response. Telasco Segovia’s two goals before the half turned the initial deficit into a 3-1 advantage for the visitors by halftime.

Messi was instrumental in this comeback, setting up both of Segovia’s goals before adding a goal of his own.

After his streak of five consecutive MLS games with multiple goals was halted last week, Messi regained his scoring touch with two goals in the 60th and 75th minutes, effectively sealing the victory.

Inter Miami has now secured victories in six of their last seven MLS games, maintaining their strong performance following their exit from the FIFA Club World Cup.

With his display on Saturday, Messi has increased his season tally to 18 goals in MLS and has contributed to a total of 27 goals overall.

Meanwhile, the New York Red Bulls were unable to capitalize on their recent form and have now suffered their second defeat of the season against Inter Miami. They also missed an opportunity to secure consecutive home wins.

Goalkeeper Rios Novo made only his second start of the season for Inter Miami, filling in for the injured Oscar Ustari.