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Lionel Messi scores twice and inspires Inter Miami to a 5-3 comeback win at FC Cincinnati in MLS, extending their away streak to seven games.
Lionel Messi evaded pitch invader and scored twice as Inter Miami beat FC Cincinnati 5-3 in the MLS (AP)
Lionel Messi fought off a pitch invader and delivered another masterclass as Inter Miami came from behind to claim a thrilling 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Wednesday.
The Argentine superstar scored twice and was heavily involved in attack as Miami extended their impressive away winning streak to seven matches. It was the third time this season that Messi has recorded at least three goal contributions in a single game, further underlining his outstanding form ahead of next month’s World Cup in North America.
FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami – As It Happened
Lionel Messi opened the scoring midway through the first half when his close-range effort took a fortunate deflection off Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga before finding the net. However, the hosts equalised shortly before halftime when Kevin Denkey converted from the penalty spot.
Cincinnati continued to threaten after the break and took the lead in the 49th minute through Pavel Bucha. Messi responded quickly, combining brilliantly with Luis Suarez before finishing calmly to make it 2-2.
The drama continued when Brazilian playmaker Evander restored Cincinnati’s lead with a powerful strike from outside the box. But Inter Miami refused to back down and mounted another comeback in the closing stages.
Young Argentine substitute Mateo Silvetti equalised in the 79th minute after being set up by Messi. Soon after, German Berterame capitalised on confusion inside the Cincinnati penalty area to score the decisive goal in the 84th minute.
Messi then forced Miami’s fifth goal late on when his shot crashed against the post before rebounding off goalkeeper Roman Celentano and into the net for an own goal.
Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos praised his side’s mentality after the dramatic comeback.
“What they did today was brilliant, against a tough team and on a difficult pitch,” he said.
“It’s very hard to play here. It’s clear they’re not here to stroll around MLS.
“They’re here to play, to give everything, and to show the world that football is played here too.”
(With inputs from Agencies)
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