In a match that showcased Lionel Messi's enduring brilliance, Inter Miami dismantled the New England Revolution 4-1 on Saturday night at Chase Stadium. The Argentine star, now firmly entrenched in MLS lore, notched three assists, pulling the strings as his team surged to a comfortable win. It was the kind of performance that reminds everyone why Messi, even at 38, remains a force—though one can't help but wonder if the league's defenses are finally catching up, or just too starstruck to adapt.
The game kicked off with Inter Miami asserting early dominance. Jordi Alba, ever the reliable flank, opened the scoring in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a precise Messi pass that sliced through New England's backline. Tadeo Allende added to the tally soon after, his clinical finish in the 28th minute making it 2-0 and exposing the visitors' vulnerabilities. New England managed a consolation goal through Carles Gil midway through the second half, but by then, the damage was done. Messi's vision orchestrated two more strikes, including a beauty to Luis Suárez, pushing the score to 4-1 and sealing yet another chapter in Inter Miami's impressive run.
Indeed, this wasn't just any win. Inter Miami extended their unbeaten streak in MLS play, now sitting atop the Eastern Conference with 65 points from 32 matches. New England, struggling at the bottom with just 22 points, looked disjointed—Gil's lone goal a fleeting spark in an otherwise dim outing. Messi's contributions bring his season tally to 15 goals and 18 assists, breaking more records in the process. However, the Revolution's woes run deeper; defensive lapses have plagued them all year, turning potential draws into routs.
Moreover, Messi's form comes at a pivotal time, with Inter Miami eyeing the playoffs and perhaps another Supporters' Shield. For New England, the loss stings, highlighting a season of what-ifs. Yet, as the dust settles on this lopsided affair, one ponders if Messi's magic can carry Miami all the way, or if fatigue will finally claim its toll.