Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass as Inter Miami CF dismantled the Columbus Crew 5-1 at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, in a statement win that has fans and rivals buzzing about what comes next for the Herons.
Messi scored twice and provided three assists, orchestrating all five of Miami’s goals. The Argentine superstar put Miami ahead with goals in the 15th and 24th minutes, after Tadeo Allende opened the scoring in the 13th. By halftime, Miami led 3-0, putting the game out of reach early.
Columbus briefly threatened a comeback when Cesar Ruvalcaba headed in a corner in the 58th minute, but Luis Suárez responded with Miami’s fourth goal in the 64th. Fafa Picault capped the rout in the 89th minute, again assisted by Messi.
With this victory, Inter Miami climbs to third in the MLS Eastern Conference standings, while Columbus sits fifth. Messi now leads the franchise in all-time MLS regular-season goals, breaking the previous record and underlining his impact since arriving in Miami.
Inter Miami’s schedule intensifies as they prepare for Club World Cup play, but with Messi in this form, expectations are soaring. For fans and opponents alike, the question remains—can anyone stop Inter Miami’s momentum?
