Inter Miami dominated from the start. In the 12th minute, following a Seattle Sounders turnover in midfield, Messi passed from the center to the left wing, setting up Jordi Alba for a shot that deflected off the goalkeeper and into the net.

Inter Miami continued to press after the opening goal. In the 41st minute, Alba returned the favor, crossing from the left for Messi to tap in and double the lead. A Seattle Sounders midfield error led to the second goal.

Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring for Inter Miami against Seattle Sounders in the MLS matchday 31 on 16/9/2025 at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. Photo: AP

Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring for Inter Miami against Seattle Sounders in the MLS matchday 31 on 16/9/2025 at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. Photo: AP

Two goals down, the visitors' spirits dwindled. In the 52nd minute, Ian Fray headed in a corner kick to make it 3-0 for Inter Miami. Seattle Sounders managed a consolation goal through Obed Vargas in the 69th minute.

The victory over Seattle Sounders propelled Inter Miami to fifth place in the Eastern Conference of the MLS, with 49 points from 27 matches. Messi and his teammates are eight points behind leaders Philadelphia Union but have played three fewer games.

The win on Sunday also avenged Inter Miami's 3-0 Leagues Cup final loss to Seattle Sounders on 1/9.

Thanh Quy