MLS: Inter Miami Edges DC United 3-2 Thanks to Messi's Heroics

Inter Miami beats DC United

Lionel Messi scored two goals and created another as Inter Miami secured a 3-2 win over DC United, moving closer to a playoff spot in the MLS Cup.

“His ability not only to score but to make the team play, to find situations, and to carry the team on his shoulders when we needed him most and faced difficulties...”

Lionel Messi delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring two goals and creating another as Inter Miami secured a thrilling 3-2 win over DC United on Saturday. This impressive victory brings Miami closer to securing a playoff berth in the MLS Cup. Messi's consistent brilliance has sparked discussions about a potential contract extension, which would keep him in Miami at least through next year.

Messi's stats for the match were remarkable: he assisted Tadeo Allende's goal in the 35th minute and then scored twice in the second half, in the 66th and 85th minutes. His 22 goals in 22 matches this season have propelled him to the top of the league scoring list, surpassing Nashville's Sam Surridge, who has 21 goals. This achievement marks Messi's seventh double of the MLS season, showcasing his significant influence on Inter Miami's game.

“It was another ordinary night for him, which is totally extraordinary for any other football player,” Miami coach Javier Mascherano said.

“His ability not only to score but to make the team play, to find situations, and to carry the team on his shoulders when we needed him most and faced difficulties - that is the advantage of having him, and today we were able to take advantage of it.”

Inter Miami CF dominated the match from the start, playing on a rainy night at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, against DC United, who were already out of playoff contention. They took the lead in the 35th minute with a brilliant move. Lionel Messi's perfectly judged through ball found Tadeo Allende, who showcased his skill with a great first touch, beating DC United goalkeeper Luis Barraza, and then smoothly fired the ball into the right corner of the net, securing a 1-0 lead for Inter Miami.

The match saw Inter Miami's determination to secure a playoff spot, with coach Javier Mascherano emphasizing the importance of the win. The victory moved Inter Miami up in the standings, and they're now just one win away from securing a playoff spot.

Christian Benteke leveled the score for DC United in the 52nd minute with a precise header, giving his team hope for a comeback. However, Lionel Messi quickly restored Inter Miami's lead in the 66th minute. Receiving a pass from Jordi Alba in the box, Messi skillfully turned and slotted a left-footed shot past DC United goalkeeper Luis Barraza, showcasing his exceptional skill and composure in front of goal.

Mateo Silvetti, an Argentine player, entered the game as a substitute in the 69th minute and just two minutes later, he was fouled in the box by DC United goalkeeper Luis Barraza. The referee immediately pointed to the spot, awarding Inter Miami CF a penalty kick. Silvetti, only 19 years old, stepped up to take the kick but unfortunately smashed the ball off the crossbar, denying his team an opportunity to score.

Coach Javier Mascherano praised Lionel Messi's gesture, saying, “Leo gave it to Toto (Silvetti) surely as a gesture to let him have his first goal, which I think is something very good, unfortunately he couldn't score it.” Mascherano noted that this act reflects Messi's character, as he often involves others who need it more than him. “It's something he has done many times in his career,” Mascherano added.

Messi's influence on the game didn't stop there. He sealed the win for Inter Miami with a trademark moment of brilliance in the 85th minute. Collecting a pass just outside the penalty area, Messi skillfully eluded his defender and lofted a shot over DC United goalkeeper Luis Barraza, extending Inter Miami's lead to 3-1. This goal capped off an impressive performance by Messi, who had already scored twice in the match.

Saturday night win 🤩🔥 pic.twitter.com/5wtzH88iVS

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 21, 2025

Jacob Murrell's late goal in the seventh minute of stoppage time significantly reduced DC United's deficit, showcasing his team's determination to fight until the end. Despite this effort, Inter Miami secured a 3-2 win, a victory coach Javier Mascherano described as “very important” for the team's morale and standings.

This win propelled Inter Miami to fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points, but the team will have to wait to secure their playoff spot. The New York Red Bulls' 2-0 victory over CF Montréal means Inter Miami still needs confirmation of their playoff berth.

 

Another one for the 🐐 ✨ @RoyalCaribbean pic.twitter.com/BhxE31PTii

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 21, 2025

Lionel Messi who is on the brink of signing a new contract with Inter Miami showcases his leadership and team spirit were also evident when he chose to give Mateo Silvetti a penalty opportunity, which Silvetti unfortunately missed. Despite this, Messi's assist earlier in the game had been a strategic move to involve a teammate seeking his first goal.