Inter Miami CF etched their name in club history with a dominant 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference Semifinal, marking their first-ever appearance in the Eastern Conference Final. Lionel Messi delivered a performance for the ages, scoring a goal and providing three assists, propelling his team to a resounding win.

The match, held at TQL Stadium on Sunday, saw Inter Miami assert their dominance early on. In the 19th minute, Messi initiated the scoring, combining with fellow Argentinian, Mateo Silvetti, culminating in a header past Cincinnati's goalkeeper Roman Celentano. The game remained relatively tight until Inter Miami unleashed their offensive prowess in the second half.

Silvetti returned the favor to Messi in the 57th minute, extending Inter Miami's lead with a remarkable strike, assisted by Messi. Messi then orchestrated two more goals, setting up Tadeo Allende for a brace in the 62nd and 74th minutes, sealing the emphatic 4-0 victory.

Messi's exceptional performance not only secured the win but also set a new league record. He now boasts 12 goal contributions (six goals and six assists) in the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, surpassing any player in a single postseason. Furthermore, this performance marked Messi's 1300th goal contribution in his career. Throughout 1134 professional appearances, he has totaled 896 goals and 404 assists.

Inter Miami's victory sends them to their first-ever Eastern Conference Final, where they will face New York City FC. The winner will advance to the MLS Cup presented by Audi on December 6.

Inter Miami, founded in 2018, has quickly become a significant force in Major League Soccer (MLS). Co-owned by David Beckham, the club has garnered international attention, further amplified by the addition of Lionel Messi in 2023. Inter Miami made its MLS debut in 2020 and won the Leagues Cup in 2023.

With Messi leading the charge, Inter Miami's historic season continues as they pursue their ultimate goal of winning the MLS Cup.