Lionel Messi once again showcased his extraordinary talent on Saturday night, delivering a spectacular performance that included scoring two goals and providing one crucial assist, as Inter Miami dominated their Eastern Conference rivals, Columbus Crew, with a convincing 5-1 victory at Chase Stadium.
From the very beginning of the match, Messi was the creative force behind Inter Miami’s attacking prowess. He expertly set up Tadeo Allende for the opening goal in the 13th minute, demonstrating his vision and precise passing to break down the opposition’s defense early on.
Just two minutes later, Messi capitalized on a defensive blunder by Columbus, quickly pouncing on the opportunity to score his first goal of the night. His sharp instincts and clinical finishing put Inter Miami well ahead and sent a strong message to their opponents.
Columbus Crew faced additional setbacks as they were without their first-choice goalkeeper, Patrick Schulte. Stand-in goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen’s mistake in the 27th minute handed Messi a golden chance, which he expertly seized by delicately chipping the ball over Hagen to extend the lead to 3-0, leaving the home crowd in awe.
The second half saw Inter Miami maintain relentless pressure, with Luis Suárez further adding to the scoreline. His goal came from sustained offensive efforts that kept Columbus on the back foot, unable to regain control of the game.
Adding to the excitement, Fafa Picault sealed the emphatic win by scoring the fifth goal, effectively putting the match out of reach and capping off a dominant performance by the hosts.
For Columbus Crew, Cesar Ruvalcaba managed to pull one back with a second-half goal, but it was merely a consolation as Inter Miami controlled the match from start to finish. The 5-1 result underscores the gulf in class and effectiveness between the two sides on the day.
This comprehensive victory not only boosts Inter Miami’s standing in the Eastern Conference but also highlights Lionel Messi’s ongoing influence and ability to change the course of a match single-handedly.