Lionel Messi scores goal and sets up three more as Inter Miami beat Cincinnati 4-0 | OneFootball

Lionel Messi starred for Inter Miami as they thrashed FC Cincinnati 4-0 at the TQL Stadium on Sunday.

The Herons have made it to the Eastern Conference final for the first time in club history. 

Messi’s latest heroics helped set an MLS play-off record with 12 goal contributions in a single post-season. 

He is now on course to win his second MVP award, having bagged 29 goals and 16 assists in 28 appearances this season.

The Argentine superstar opened the scoring with a brilliant header in the 19th minute. 

He then set up Michael Silvetti, who fired the ball into the lower right corner of the net. 

Tadeo Allende added two more, with both goals assisted by Messi. 

Luis Suarez, who was suspended for Miami’s previous match against Nashville, replaced Allende for the final few minutes. 

Inter will now face New York City FC in the Eastern Conference final at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Sunday.

The World Cup winner signed a new contract with Miami in October, extending his stay until the end of the 2028 season. 

Messi joined the Herons in 2023 after the expiration of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain. 

He has been instrumental in reviving the club’s fortunes, helping them win the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. 

Across 85 appearances across all competitions, the Argentina international has bagged 76 goals and 38 assists.

Stats from Transfermarkt.