Messi’s goal and three assists propel Inter Miami to MLS Eastern final

Lionel Messi’s emotions after the goal / Photo: Instagram/@leomessi

On Nov. 23, Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati and advanced to the MLS Eastern Conference final. Lionel Messi contributed to each of the four goals scored by his team.

MLS Cup

Conference Semifinals, Nov. 23

FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami: 0-4

Goals: Lionel Messi 19’, Mateo Silvetti 57’, Tadeo Allende 62’, 74’

Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute, tapping in a high cross from his fellow Argentine, Mateo Silvetti. After halftime, the 38-year-old forward made three assists. Silvetti was the first to score from Messi’s pass. Later, another Argentine player, Tadeo Allende, made a brace.

«Let’s go! Great match from the whole team against a rival that has always been really tough for us. One more step…» Messi commented on the match on Instagram.

In the Eastern Conference final, Inter Miami will face New York City FC, which defeated Philadelphia Union 1-0, with the match scheduled for Nov. 29.

Messi’s career

Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023. He helped the club win its first major trophy — the 2023 Leagues Cup. In 2024, Inter Miami won the regular season. Messi recorded 35 goals and 20 assists over 32 MLS matches in 2025.

Messi made his debut for Argentina’s national team in 2005. As part of the national team, he became world champion (2022), a two-time winner of the Copa América (2021, 2024), and an Olympic champion (2008). He has played 196 matches for the national team, scoring 115 goals and making 64 assists.