Inter Miami Equals MLS Record with 5-3 Victory as Messi Nets Brace

FC Cincinnati hosted Inter Miami in what promised to be a high-stakes MLS clash, but few anticipated the rollercoaster that unfolded. Miami emerged 5-3 victors, equaling the league record with 22 points from their first nine regular-season games—a mark previously set by Cincinnati themselves in 2024. The game ignited early with Messi's opportunistic strike in the 24th minute, exploiting a defensive error to notch his 10th goal. Cincinnati hit back through Denkey's composed penalty in the 44th, erasing Miami's lead at the break. Post-interval drama ensued: Bucha's 49th-minute finish gave the hosts the edge, only for Messi's brilliance to shine again at 55', threading De Paul's delivery past the keeper for goal number 11. Evander's 64th-minute strike briefly silenced the visitors, but Miami's bench strength prevailed. Silvetti's 79th-minute equalizer, his third of the season off a Messi assist, shifted momentum decisively. Berterame followed suit in the 84th, converting a rebound for 4-3. The match's bizarre twist came at 89' when Celentano's fumble resulted in an own goal, confirming Miami's hard-fought win. This performance highlights Inter Miami's depth and Messi's unmatched influence, as they continue to dominate the Eastern Conference standings with flair and determination.