Under the Sunday Night Soccer spotlight, Lionel Messi put on an absolute clinic to lead Inter Miami CF to a decisive 2-0 victory over the Portland Timbers. The win marks a historic milestone for the club, securing their first-ever victory at their brand-new Downtown Miami venue, Nu Stadium.
Interim manager Guillermo Hoyos could not hide his delight after the match, highly praising his squad’s artistic and clinical performance on the pitch.
“Did you see the game? Beautiful game, right? The players drew, they painted, they did everything. Honestly, it was a huge sacrifice.”
Messi Dominates the MLS Leaderboards
With his latest masterful display, Messi has elevated his game to an entirely different level this season. The playmaker completely tore apart the Timbers’ defense by breaking the ice with a trademark clinical finish. Later in the match, he brilliantly danced through multiple Portland defenders before dishing out a perfect assist to teammate.
As a result of this 1g/1a performance, Messi continues to dominate the league’s statistical charts:
- Goal Contributions: A league-best 18 goal contributions (12 goals, 6 assists).
- Golden Boot Race: Currently sits second in the MLS Golden Boot race.
- Team Standings: The victory propels Inter Miami to the top of the Eastern Conference with 28 points.
The crucial home win also successfully snapped a frustrating four-game winless streak (0W-1L-3D) for the Herons at their new stadium.
Peak Form Ahead of World Cup Title Defense
Messi’s scorching domestic form comes at the perfect time for international soccer fans. This summer, the 2022 World Cup champion will link up with Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul to lead Argentina’s highly anticipated title defense.
“We are constantly amazed by these players who are simply wonderful,” Hoyos added, emphasizing how Messi and the rest of the squad continuously find creative ways to express themselves under immense pressure.
One Final Push Before the Pause
There is now only one match remaining on the schedule before Major League Soccer hits a month-long pause for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Consequently, Miami is incredibly focused on entering the break with maximum momentum on their side.
Inter Miami will get the chance to solidify their spot at the top of the Eastern Conference next week. They are scheduled to face the Philadelphia Union at home on May 24 at 7:30 pm ET. Fans can catch the action live on Apple TV, FOX, and FOX Deportes.