Messi Magic Propels Inter Miami to Dominant 4-1 Victory Over CF Montréal
MONTREAL, QC – Inter Miami CF marked their return to MLS regular season action with a resounding 4-1 win on the road against CF Montréal on Saturday night, largely thanks to a breathtaking performance from Lionel Messi, who netted two spectacular goals and provided an assist.
The night began with an unexpected jolt for the Herons. Just two minutes in, a rare giveaway from Messi allowed Montréal’s Prince Owusu to open the scoring, putting the home side ahead. However, Inter Miami quickly shook off the early mishap and began to assert its dominance.
The equalizer came in the 33rd minute when Messi found Tadeo Allende at the top of the box, and Allende fired a long-range shot past Montréal goalkeeper Jonathan Sirois.
Not long after, Messi showcased his individual brilliance, dribbling through several Montréal defenders before cutting onto his left foot and curling a shot into the far post to give Miami a 2-1 lead in the 40th minute.
The second half saw Inter Miami continue their offensive display. Telasco Segovia extended the lead in the 60th minute, and just two minutes later, Messi delivered another highlight-reel goal. Weaving through a pack of Montréal defenders with an impressive solo effort that evoked memories of his FC Barcelona days, he buried his second of the night and 12th of the MLS season, sealing the 4-1 victory.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, particularly given their recent return from the Club World Cup. “It was not easy to get back into the competition after spending a month playing in the Club World Cup, and I think the players handled it perfectly,” Mascherano stated in a post-match interview.
“The team had to work hard to turn it around, and they did an excellent job, right in line with the level we showed throughout the Club World Cup. So, honestly, it was a great night. We’re taking three much-needed points back to Miami to shift our focus back to MLS.”
Despite Montréal having several opportunities to build on their early lead, they failed to capitalize before Messi took over the game. The result moves Inter Miami up the MLS table, with crucial games in hand.
Inter Miami will now look to carry this momentum into their next fixture as they visit the New England Revolution for midweek regular-season action on Wednesday, July 9.
Join our socials
https://www.instagram.com/stranacmedia/
https://x.com/stranacmedia