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Lionel Messi Scores Twice In Miami’s 4-2 Win Past Montreal
Sandy Verma | May 30, 2025 2:29 AM CST

Lionel Messi Scores Twice In Miami’s 4-2 Win Past Montreal/ TezzBuzz/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Lionel Messi delivered two goals and an assist to lead Inter Miami to a crucial 4-2 win over Montreal, snapping a four-match winless streak. Luis Suárez added two second-half goals as the Herons regained momentum ahead of their Club World Cup debut. Despite defensive lapses and key injuries, Miami’s attack finally clicked in front of their home crowd.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half of an MLS soccer match against CF Montreal, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Messi Powers Miami Past Montreal: Quick Looks

  • Messi’s Magic Returns: Scored in the 27th and 87th minutes, added an assist.
  • Suárez Breaks Slump: Two goals from the veteran forward, assisted by Messi.
  • End of the Slide: First win since May 3, ending a 0-2-2 stretch.
  • Playoff Push Rekindled: Miami climbs back toward Eastern Conference contention.
  • Team Chemistry Restored: Messi’s leadership credited with keeping spirits high.
  • Injury Concerns Rise: Jordi Alba, Gonzalo Luján, and Toto Avilés Exited Hurt.
  • Defensive Setbacks: Miami conceded two late goals, frustrating coach Mascherano.
  • Club World Cup Looms: Miami preps for June 14 opener vs. Egypt’s Al Ahly.
  • Upcoming Test: Hosts Columbus next before international tournament challenge.
Inter Miami midfielder Jordi Alba, second from right, is patted on the head by head coach Javier Mascherano, right, as he leaves the game with an injury during the first half of an MLS soccer match against CF Montreal, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Deep Look: Messi Delivers As Inter Miami Ends Winless Streak

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Inter Miami’s star power finally aligned as Lionel Messi scored twice and added an assist in a much-needed 4-2 victory over CF Montreal on Wednesday night. The win snapped a frustrating winless run and gave Miami a jolt of confidence ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Messi’s influence was unmistakable. His 27th-minute opener came after a slick combination with Sergio Busquetswho screened the Montreal defense just enough to free the Argentine superstar for his seventh goal of the season.

A Night for the Stars

Following Messi’s opener, Miami controlled much of the match with fluid passing and relentless movement. In the 68th minute, Messi danced through defenders to set up Luis Suárez for a clinical finish, giving the Herons a 2-1 edge.

Just three minutes later, Suárez struck again, this time finishing a rebound to complete his brace — a major confidence boost after entering the night with just two goals in the campaign.

The final blow came in the 87th minute when Suárez returned the favor, assisting Messi to seal the 4-2 victory.

Defensive Cracks Still Show

Despite the offensive fireworks, Miami’s defense continued to show cracks. The Herons allowed late goals to Dante Sealy and Victor Loturiturning what should have been a rout into a nervier finish.

Those moments took the shine off what had been a dominant performance for most of the game and will be a point of emphasis heading into Saturday’s match against Columbus Crew.

Injury Woes

The celebrations were dampened by injuries to three defenders, including veteran Jordi Albawho exited with a lower-body injury in the first half. Mascherano said the team is still evaluating the severity but admitted the timing is poor.

Gonzalo Luján and Toto Aviles also left the match with injuries, leaving Miami thin in defense ahead of a congested schedule.

Looking Ahead: Club World Cup Awaits

Inter Miami’s performance came at a pivotal moment, as the team eyes a historic appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup on June 14where they will face Al Ahly of Egypt. Before then, they have one more MLS test at home against Columbus.

The return of Messi’s spark and Suárez’s scoring touch couldn’t have come at a better time. Now, the focus shifts to staying healthy and tightening up defensively before stepping onto the global stage.


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