Lionel Messi delivered his most impressive performance of the season at TQL Stadium on the evening of 13/5. The Argentine superstar played the full 90 minutes, registering 71 touches, a 72% pass accuracy, four key passes, one assist, six shots, and three goals. He received a perfect 10 rating from Sofascore for his efforts.
Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute. After center-back Matt Miazga's clumsy clearance attempt in the penalty area, Messi quickly closed in, blocking the ball's path. The ball rebounded off him and went directly into the net, setting a dramatic tone for the match.
Cincinnati responded with goals from Kevin Denkey and Pavel Bucha, taking a 2-1 lead. However, Messi equalized again in the 55th minute. Rodrigo De Paul broke free down the right wing and delivered a precise cross, allowing his compatriot to tap in with his left foot into the near corner, leaving goalkeeper Roman Celentano with no chance.
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Lionel Messi celebrates a goal with Luis Suarez during Inter Miami's 5-3 victory over Cincinnati in MLS matchday 14 at TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, USA on 13/5. *Photo: Inter Miami* |
Cincinnati took the lead for a second time in the 74th minute through Evander. Despite trailing, Inter Miami did not give up and secured three points at TQL Stadium, thanks to Messi's decisive moments in the final quarter of the game.
In the 79th minute, Mateo Silvetti received a pass from the Argentine forward. He dribbled from the left wing, cut inside, and scored with a clean diagonal shot, bringing the match level at 3-3.
Minutes later, Messi's free-kick caused a scramble in the penalty area, creating an opportunity for German Berterame to score into an open net, putting Inter Miami ahead in a thrilling, back-and-forth contest.
Messi capped off his stellar night in the 89th minute. From a left-wing cross by Silvetti, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner stretched to finish with his right foot. The ball struck the post before entering the net, sending TQL Stadium into a frenzy and sealing a performance defined by Messi's brilliance.
Hong Duy
