Inter Miami stormed into their first-ever Eastern Conference final with a dominant 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati on Sunday, powered by a sparkling display from Lionel Messi and a trio of Argentine scorers spanning three generations.
Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a trademark header from a cross by 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti, before providing three assists in the second half as Silvetti doubled the lead with a composed finish.
Inspired by the duo, 26-year-old Tadeo Allende struck twice in quick succession, both set up by sublime through-balls from Messi, to seal a commanding win for Javier Mascherano’s side. Allende’s pace and power overwhelmed the Cincinnati defence, while Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo made key early saves to keep the hosts at bay.
Miami threatened further late on, but Rodrigo De Paul squandered a golden opportunity from another clever Messi pass.
Messi, who is on course for back-to-back MLS Most Valuable Player awards after 29 goals and 19 assists in the regular season, has now contributed six goals and six assists in the playoffs, setting a new MLS playoff record with 12 goal contributions.
Inter Miami finished the regular season in third place and will host fifth-seeded New York City FC in Saturday’s Eastern Conference final. NYCFC advanced earlier with a 1-0 win over Supporters’ Shield winners Philadelphia Union.