Messi Masterclass Fires Inter Miami Into Eastern Conference Final With 4–0 Win Over Cincinnati

Posted : 24 November 2025

Lionel Messi rolled back the years with a commanding display as Inter Miami cruised into the Eastern Conference championship match, dismantling FC Cincinnati 4–0 on Sunday. The Argentine icon was involved in every goal, scoring once and setting up the remaining three, while Tadeo Allende struck twice and Mateo Silvetti added another to seal an emphatic victory.

With the win, Miami moves one step closer to their first-ever MLS Cup final appearance. They will host New York City FC next Saturday, after NYCFC stunned top-seeded Philadelphia with a narrow 1–0 victory earlier in the evening courtesy of Maxi Moralez’s first-half finish. The 2021 MLS Cup champions now stand between Miami and a place in the league’s title match.

Miami entered the semifinal brimming with belief, and their performance reflected complete confidence and control. Head coach Javier Mascherano praised the group for delivering what he called an almost flawless game. He applauded his players’ composure, work ethic, and tactical discipline, highlighting Messi’s influence both on and off the ball. Mascherano described managing the World Cup winner and his cohesive squad as an “honour and privilege.”

A capacity crowd of more than 26,000 filled TQL Stadium hoping for a Cincinnati upset, and the home side started brightly. Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo was called into early action, thwarting striker Kevin Denkey. But Miami quickly punished Cincinnati’s missed chances when Messi found young winger Mateo Silvetti with a clever ball down the left. Silvetti returned the pass with a perfectly placed cross, allowing Messi to head home the opener.

Cincinnati had another opportunity moments later, but Ender Echenique dragged his shot wide. From that point on, Miami dictated play. Messi nearly doubled the lead before halftime, but his curling effort slid past the post. The breakthrough eventually came in the 57th minute when Messi and Silvetti combined again, with the teenager curling a composed finish into the corner.

As Cincinnati pushed forward in desperation, Miami exploited the extra space with ruthless efficiency. Messi unlocked the defense once more in the 62nd minute to set up Allende for Miami’s third, before delivering another precise pass in the 74th minute that allowed Allende to complete his brace and close out the match.

Inter Miami now look ahead to the Eastern Conference final, while the Western Conference will be decided between Vancouver and the winner of Monday’s clash between top-seeded San Diego and Minnesota United. The MLS Cup final is scheduled for December 6.

Messi Masterclass Fires Inter Miami Into Eastern Conference Final With 4–0 Win Over Cincinnati

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