Lionel Messi scored two goals and provided assists as Inter Miami bounced back from defeat with a 5-1 thrashing of the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer.
Lionel Messi was back to his best as Inter Miami dominated the New York Red Bulls 5-1 in a Major League Soccer match.
After a 3-0 defeat to FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, Messi rediscovered his scoring touch, netting two goals and providing assists in Inter Miami’s emphatic victory.
The match got off to a rocky start for Inter Miami, with the New York Red Bulls taking the lead through Alexander Hack’s 14th-minute goal. However, Messi quickly orchestrated Inter Miami’s recovery, providing a sublime pass to set up Jordi Alba’s equalizer in the 24th minute.
Messi continued to dictate the pace of the game, combining with Alba to set up Telasco Segovia’s goal in the 27th minute. Segovia added another goal in the first-half stoppage time, leaving Inter Miami firmly in control.
In the second half, Messi took center stage, scoring two goals that showcased his skill and composure. A majestic through ball from Sergio Busquets sent Messi racing through on goal, and he coolly feinted to wrongfoot the goalkeeper before tucking away the finish.
Messi’s second goal was the result of another Barcelona old boys’ combination, with Luis Suarez crossing from the left and Messi controlling the ball on the edge of the six-yard box before thumping it past the goalkeeper.
