Messi's Four-Goal Masterclass Lifts Inter Miami to 7-1 Victory
Lionel Messi netted four goals and provided an assist as Inter Miami defeated CF Montreal 7-1, ending a five-match winless streak. The 39-year-old's performance marked his first four-goal game in MLS, bringing his season tally to 18. Interim coach Guillermo Hoyos described Messi's display as beyond words.
Messi's performance came at a pivotal moment for Inter Miami, who had gone five matches without a win across all competitions before Saturday's rout. The 39-year-old's four-goal output included a free kick in stoppage time, and he now leads the MLS scoring charts with 18 goals this season. His display drew praise from interim coach Guillermo Hoyos, who described the performance as defying description.
The match also highlighted the growing partnership between Messi and Casemiro, who joined Miami in July after leaving Manchester United. The two spent years as rivals in Spain's El Clasico, with Casemiro at Real Madrid and Messi at Barcelona. Casemiro noted that Messi's continued excellence was proven at the World Cup, where he captained Argentina to the final before losing to Spain.
Messi's continued dominance at age 39 could significantly boost MLS visibility and credibility on the global stage, potentially attracting more international viewers and investment to American soccer. His performances may also influence how aging star players are perceived, showing that elite-level production can extend well beyond traditional peak years. For Inter Miami, this victory could shift momentum in their season, though sustained success will depend on whether the team can build on this result rather than relying solely on individual brilliance.