Lionel Messi showcased his goal-scoring prowess yet again in MLS, netting twice to guide league leaders Inter Miami to a come-from-behind 4-1 triumph over the New England Revolution on Saturday.
With his brace, Messi, the top goal scorer in MLS, increased his tally to nine goals from seven appearances this season. A crowd of over 65,612 spectators filled Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, to witness the Argentine World Cup winner in action.
In a thrilling match, New England opened the scoring after just 40 seconds through their Argentine player Tomas Chancalay, taking advantage of a defensive mistake by Miami. However, Messi restored parity in the 32nd minute and later put Miami ahead with another clinical finish in the 68th minute.
Miami secured the victory with two more goals, both orchestrated by Messi. Substitute Benjamin Cremaschi capitalized on a rebound from Messi’s shot to make it 3-1 in the 83rd minute, while Luis Suarez sealed the win with a strike assisted by Messi.
Inter Miami have now won three consecutive matches, with Messi displaying exceptional form since their exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Coach Gerardo Martino praised his team’s progress, emphasizing their resilience and growing cohesion after recent victories. He also noted the squad’s adjustment to playing in front of the large crowds drawn by Messi.
New England coach Caleb Porter acknowledged Messi’s impact on the match, lamenting his team’s lapses in defense that allowed the Argentine star to capitalize on key moments.
Porter said, “You have to look at both those moments because I thought they were able to find two goals when we felt pretty good about the way we were limiting their effectiveness in creating clear chances.”
