Lionel Messi delivered yet another masterclass performance, scoring once and setting up three more goals as Inter Miami cruised past FC Cincinnati 4–0 in the 2025 MLS Eastern Conference semifinal on Sunday. The win marks Miami’s deepest playoff run in club history as they advance to the Eastern Conference Final for the first time.

Messi, who has been unstoppable throughout the postseason, played a pivotal role in every attacking sequence, continuing what is shaping up to be another MVP-level campaign.

Inter Miami Advance After Convincing 4–0 Victory

Miami’s goals came from Tadeo Allende, who scored a brilliant second-half brace, Mateo Silvetti, who added a goal and an assist, and Messi himself, who opened the scoring in the first half. The No. 3 seed will now host New York City FC in the East final after NYCFC defeated top-seeded Philadelphia 1–0.

Cincinnati, meanwhile, faced heartbreak for the third straight postseason as they were eliminated at home once again.

Messi Continues Historic Playoff Form

Messi’s impact in the MLS playoffs has been staggering. With six goals and six assists in the postseason so far, he has contributed to every single goal Inter Miami have scored.

This comes after a remarkable regular season where he scored 29 goals and delivered 19 assists, putting him squarely on track to win his second consecutive MLS MVP award.

On Sunday, Messi struck first in the 19th minute. The play began when Jordi Alba intercepted a pass, pushing forward to ignite a fast transition. Silvetti then delivered a looping cross from the left wing, and Messi timed his run perfectly, heading the ball past Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano.

Young Stars Step Up as Miami’s Attack Evolves

Despite the availability of veteran striker Luis Suárez—who was left out of the starting lineup after serving a red-card suspension—manager Javier Mascherano opted for a more dynamic, youthful attack. The decision paid off immediately.

Silvetti doubled the lead in the 57th minute after a brilliant interchange that began from a throw-in. Allende received the ball, executed a quick turn to escape pressure, and found Messi near the edge of the box. Messi then played a sharp pass into Silvetti’s path, and the 19-year-old finished with a stunning curling effort into the far corner.

Allende’s Second-Half Brace Seals the Result

Tadeo Allende continued Miami’s dominance with goals in the 62nd and 74th minutes, both coming from quick counterattacks. Messi created the first by dispossessing Evander and initiating the break, and he delivered the final through ball for both scoring opportunities.

The synergy between Messi, Silvetti, and Allende has transformed Miami’s offense, signaling a new era of speed, creativity, and precision.

Miami One Step Away From MLS Cup Final

Inter Miami now stand only one match away from reaching the MLS Cup Final for the first time. With Messi in world-class form, Miami look like genuine contenders to win their first MLS championship.

The Eastern Conference Final against NYCFC will be hosted in Miami, where home fans will expect another dominant display from their Argentinian superstar and one of the league’s most exciting young squads.