Inter Miami CF delivered a resounding performance, routing the Columbus Crew 5-1 in a Major League Soccer (MLS) match that served as a potent prelude to their upcoming Club World Cup debut. Lionel Messi, the Argentine maestro, orchestrated the victory with a masterful display, scoring two goals and providing two assists. This dominant showing marked a significant resurgence for Inter Miami, who had recently endured a slump in form but have now secured consecutive victories, injecting renewed confidence into the squad ahead of their prestigious international competition.
The match unfolded with Inter Miami quickly capitalizing on Columbus’s uncharacteristically porous defense. In the 13th minute, Messi, operating from a deeper midfield position, unleashed a perfectly weighted long ball over the top of the Columbus defense, finding Tadeo Allende who calmly slotted the ball home for the opening goal. Just two minutes later, Columbus goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen, deputizing for the injured Patrick Schulte, committed a costly error, gifting possession directly to Messi. The Argentine superstar attempted a delicate chip, which Hagen managed to partially deflect, but the ball continued its trajectory into the net, doubling Inter Miami’s lead.
The onslaught continued in the 24th minute, with Messi completing his brace. Sergio Busquets, recognizing a lapse in concentration within the Columbus defense, delivered a lofted pass that bypassed the backline. Messi latched onto the ball, exhibiting his trademark speed and composure, and deftly lobbed the onrushing Hagen, extending Inter Miami’s advantage to a commanding 3-0. This early flurry of goals showcased the revitalized attacking prowess of Inter Miami and left Columbus reeling, struggling to contain the orchestrated movements and clinical finishing of their opponents.
While Columbus managed to briefly stem the tide in the second half, their efforts ultimately proved futile against Inter Miami’s relentless offensive pressure. In the 58th minute, Cesar Ruvalcaba provided a glimmer of hope for the Crew, connecting powerfully with a header to reduce the deficit. However, this respite was short-lived. Just six minutes later, Messi initiated another attack, breaking through the midfield before feeding Telasco Segovia. Segovia then slipped the ball to Luis Suarez, who emphatically finished into the bottom corner, restoring Inter Miami’s three-goal cushion.
The final goal of the match served as a testament to Messi’s exceptional playmaking abilities and the overall team cohesion of Inter Miami. Once again, Messi orchestrated the attack, delivering a precise pass to substitute Fafa Picault. Picault, capitalizing on the opportunity, broke free and calmly slotted the ball past Hagen, completing the rout and sealing a comprehensive 5-1 victory for Inter Miami. This emphatic win provided a significant morale boost for the team, demonstrating their ability to dismantle even a consistently strong opponent like Columbus.
The timing of this victory was particularly crucial for Inter Miami as they prepare for the Club World Cup. Having navigated a recent dip in form, the back-to-back wins, combined with the impressive individual performances and cohesive team play, have instilled renewed confidence within the squad. Messi’s contribution was particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to influence the game both as a goalscorer and a creator. With this resounding victory under their belts and Messi leading the charge, Inter Miami enters the Club World Cup with a sense of optimism and momentum, ready to compete on the global stage. Following the MLS match, Messi will join the Argentine national team for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers, providing him with further opportunities to maintain his sharp form ahead of the prestigious club tournament.
