Messi Leads Inter Miami to Eastern Conference Finals with a 4-0 Win Over Cincinnati
In a thrilling MLS playoff match on November 23, 2025, Inter Miami delivered an emphatic 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati to secure their spot in the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history. Lionel Messi, once again, proved to be the star of the show, leading the charge with a goal and three assists, setting a new record for the most goal contributions in a single MLS postseason.
The match got off to a fast start, with Messi opening the scoring in the 19th minute. The Argentine legend made a perfectly timed run into the box and met a cross from Mateo Silvetti with an unmarked header at the back post. This goal marked Messi’s first-ever strike against Cincinnati, having previously played three matches without scoring. His early goal gave Miami a crucial lead heading into halftime.
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Cincinnati, despite creating several opportunities in the first half, struggled to break down Miami’s defense, and their best efforts were thwarted by keeper Rocco Rios-Novo. Miami's offense, led by Messi, was clinical and more dangerous in transition. The second half saw Miami extend their lead further. In the 57th minute, Silvetti, starting in place of the veteran Luis Suarez, doubled the advantage with a precise finish from a Messi assist. Just five minutes later, Messi once again set up Tadeo Allende with a brilliant through ball, and Allende made no mistake, making it 3-0. Allende would score again in the 74th minute, finishing off another Messi assist with a stylish outside-of-the-foot pass, sealing the 4-0 victory.
Messi’s dominant performance didn’t just earn him a goal and three assists; it also set a new MLS record for the most goal contributions in a single postseason, with 12. This victory sent Inter Miami to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they will face the winner of the Philadelphia Union vs. NYCFC match. With Messi at the helm, Miami’s high-powered attack seems unstoppable, and their playoff run looks more promising than ever.
For Cincinnati, the loss marked the end of another disappointing playoff campaign, their third consecutive exit at the Eastern Conference semifinals. Despite finishing the regular season with a strong 24-13-8 record, including successful runs in the Concacaf Champions Cup and Leagues Cup, they couldn't overcome the brilliance of Messi and Miami’s fast-paced offense. The defeat leaves Cincinnati reflecting on yet another missed opportunity, as they prepare for next season.
Inter Miami, now riding high on momentum, will look to continue their historic run as they chase their first-ever MLS Cup, with Messi leading the way on the quest for glory.
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