Inter Miami Dominant as Lionel Messi Nears MLS Cup Final

Inter Miami player ratings against FC Cincinnati tell a story of sheer dominance, as Lionel Messi led his side to a commanding 4-0 victory and brought the club just two wins away from their first-ever MLS Cup. Messi’s brilliance, highlighted by a goal and three assists, set the stage for Inter Miami’s march into the Eastern Conference finals, while Tadeo Allende’s brace punctuated a night that snapped Miami’s three-year winless streak at TQL Stadium.

Inter Miami Player Ratings: Messi Headlines a Stellar Team Display

Inter Miami didn’t control possession early, but their efficiency in front of goal made all the difference. The breakthrough came from a well-orchestrated move, finished by Messi after a pinpoint cross from Mateo Silvetti. Messi’s header marked the start of a long night for FC Cincinnati, whose attempts to respond—most notably from Evander and Kevin Denkey—fell short before halftime.

Messi Orchestrates Second-Half Surge

After the break, Inter Miami shifted gears. Messi, once again at the center of the attack, delivered a perfect pass for Silvetti, who curled in Miami’s second goal at the 57-minute mark. The third goal was a testament to Messi’s all-round quality: winning possession deep, accelerating forward, and threading the ball into Allende’s path for a calm finish. Allende struck again in the 75th minute, securing Miami’s place in the next round.

Detailed Inter Miami Player Ratings vs FC Cincinnati

• Rocco Rios Novo (7/10): Quiet but assured, collecting a clean sheet with ease.
• Marceo Weigandt (7/10): Reliable on the right, steady throughout.
• Maxi Falcon (7/10): Chaotic energy but effective defending.
• Noah Allen (8/10): Made a crucial intervention before injury ended his night.
• Jordi Alba (7/10): More defensive duties than usual but contributed to the opener.
• Sergio Busquets (6/10): Not his sharpest, but still delivered some quality passing.
• Rodrigo De Paul (7/10): Covered ground, broke up play and initiated attacks.
• Baltasar Rodriguez (8/10): Engine of the midfield, tireless and creative.
• Tadeo Allende (8/10): Two goals and tireless pressing, vital to the result.
• Lionel Messi (10/10): A masterclass—one goal, three assists, unstoppable throughout.
• Mateo Silvetti (8/10): A goal and an assist, Miami’s attacking livewire alongside Messi.
• Substitutes:
  • Tomas Aviles (7/10): Slotted in seamlessly after Allen’s injury.
  • Telasco Segovia (6/10): Provided fresh legs in midfield.
  • Luis Suarez (N/A): Brief appearance, little time to impact.
  • Yannick Bright, Gonzalo Lujan (N/A): Not enough time to influence the game.
• Manager: Javier Mascherano (9/10): Tactical decisions paid off, especially the brave move to bench Suarez for Silvetti.

Key Moments: Messi’s Influence Unmatched

Every phase of Inter Miami’s attack revolved around Messi. Whether scoring with his head, orchestrating passing sequences, or surging from deep to create chances, Messi elevated his teammates and left Cincinnati with no answers. Allende’s brace and Silvetti’s composed finish were the direct results of Messi’s vision and execution.

What This Win Means for Inter Miami’s MLS Cup Hopes

Inter Miami’s dominant display against FC Cincinnati cements their status as favorites for the conference final. With Messi firing on all cylinders and the supporting cast stepping up, the team has found a perfect balance between efficiency and flair. Notably, the tactical gamble by Mascherano to start Silvetti over Luis Suarez paid dividends and demonstrates the squad’s depth and adaptability.

Looking Ahead: Can Anyone Stop Lionel Messi and Inter Miami?

With just two wins standing between Inter Miami and MLS Cup glory, their momentum appears unstoppable. Messi’s presence has transformed the club, while players like Allende and Silvetti are thriving alongside world-class talent. For more news on Inter Miami’s journey and the latest football updates, visit for more news.

Opinion: Messi’s Magic is Reshaping MLS

Watching Messi operate at this level in MLS is a privilege for fans and a nightmare for opponents. His ability to dictate the tempo, create opportunities, and finish with clinical precision sets a new standard for the league. As Inter Miami rolls into the conference finals, it’s hard to envision anyone halting Messi’s charge toward the MLS Cup. If this performance is any indicator, we could be witnessing the beginning of a new dynasty in American soccer.