Lionel Messi delivered a masterful performance, scoring twice and providing an assist, as Inter Miami clinched a Major League Soccer (MLS) playoff berth with a commanding 4-0 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday night. The win, Miami’s third consecutive, solidified their position atop the league with a record of 16-6-7 and a league-leading 64 goals this season.

Messi, 38, opened his account in the 74th minute, chipping the ball over advancing NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese during a breakaway to make it 2-0. Three minutes after Luis Suárez converted a penalty in the 83rd minute, Messi struck again, bringing his season tally to 37 goal contributions (goals and assists). This milestone marks him as the first MLS player to achieve 35 or more goal contributions in consecutive seasons and the fourth to record eight multi-goal games in a single campaign. Suárez’s goal, following his return from suspension, complemented Miami’s dominant display, with five of their last six matches featuring at least three goals.

Inter Miami goalkeeper Óscar Ustari secured his sixth clean sheet of the season, thwarting NYCFC’s efforts despite early chances. NYCFC’s Thiago Martins missed a header from a corner, and Nicolás Fernández’s shot went narrowly wide after outmanoeuvring Ustari. The loss ended New York City’s three-game winning streak, leaving their record at 16-10-5.

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The result underscores Inter Miami’s formidable form as they head into the playoffs, with Messi’s brilliance driving their championship aspirations. NYCFC, despite the setback, remains in contention but faces a tougher road to secure a favourable postseason position.

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