Lionel Messi scores and assists in Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati, setting up Eastern Conference final clash with New York City FC.

Cincinnati, USA, 24 November 2025 — Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance as Inter Miami moved closer to their first MLS Cup final with a 4-0 demolition of FC Cincinnati on Sunday.

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The Argentine superstar scored once and assisted all three other goals, with Tadeo Allende netting twice and Mateo Silvetti adding the other, securing Miami’s place in next Saturday’s Eastern Conference final.

Inter Miami will host New York City FC for a spot in the MLS Cup final after visiting City upset top-seed Philadelphia 1-0, courtesy of a 27th-minute strike by Argentine forward Maxi Moralez.

Third-seeded Miami arrived at the fixture brimming with confidence following a performance marked by pace, precision, and tactical intelligence.

Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi and his teammates for what he called a near-perfect display.

“The players showed incredible character and played a practically perfect match. It’s an honour and a privilege not only to manage Leo but this group of players,” Mascherano said.

“Today, he did another incredible job off the ball, because we already know what he’s capable of with it.”

A sold-out crowd of more than 26,000 witnessed the action at Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium, but the home side struggled to convert early chances.

Venezuelan forward Ender Echenique dragged a shot wide in the 22nd minute, while Kevin Denkey forced a good save from Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo after 15 minutes.

Miami took the lead when Messi combined with Silvetti, the Argentine under-20 international, who crossed for Messi to nod home.

Silvetti later scored from Messi’s setup to double the lead in the 57th minute.

Messi then threaded a pass to Allende for the third goal in the 62nd minute and again set up Allende in the 74th minute to complete the rout.

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The winners of next Saturday’s Eastern and Western Conference finals will meet in the MLS Cup championship on 6 December, with Vancouver awaiting the victor of Monday’s clash between top-seed San Diego and Minnesota United.