Lionel Messi rediscovered his scoring touch with a brace on Saturday, leading Inter Miami to a dominant 5–1 victory over the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer.
The Argentine star bounced back from Wednesday’s 3–0 loss to FC Cincinnati with a vintage performance at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, as Miami overwhelmed the hosts with a dazzling attacking display.
The Red Bulls briefly threatened an upset when Alexander Hack bundled in a 14th-minute opener. But Messi quickly took control, delivering a sublime assist to former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba for the equalizer in the 24th minute.
Three minutes later, Messi and Alba combined again—this time Alba turning provider with a low cross for Telasco Segovia, who made it 2–1 with a composed finish. Segovia struck again in first-half stoppage time to give Miami a commanding 3–1 lead at the break.
In the second half, Messi turned from creator to finisher.
A precise through ball from Sergio Busquets—another ex-Barcelona teammate—sent Messi racing clear in the 60th minute. The World Cup winner calmly feinted to beat goalkeeper Carlos Coronel before slotting home to make it 4–1.
Messi’s second came via yet another familiar connection. Luis Suárez whipped in a cross from the left, which Messi controlled expertly before rifling in from close range to seal the 5–1 rout.
AFP
