Lionel Messi Scores Twice In Miami’s 4-2 Win Past Montreal/ Newslooks/ 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.
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.
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 Busquets, who screened the Montreal defense just enough to free the Argentine superstar for his seventh goal of the season.
“We know what situation we are in,” said head coach Javier Mascherano. “We deserved better in some games, but in football, you don’t get what you deserve — you get what you do.”
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.
“That connection with Suárez — it’s what we’ve been waiting for,” said Mascherano. “They know each other so well, and tonight they showed it.”
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 Loturi, turning what should have been a rout into a nervier finish.
“That’s unacceptable,” Mascherano said bluntly. “We can’t switch off like that.”
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 Alba, who 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 Avilés 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 14, where 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.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.