Messi Leads Inter Miami to MLS Cup Semifinal Victory Over Cincinnati

Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance for Inter Miami CF. His team defeated FC Cincinnati 4-0 in the MLS Cup conference semifinals. The match took place on Saturday at a packed DRV PNK Stadium.

This victory secures homefield advantage for Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference final. According to ESPN, the team’s dominant form makes them the current favorite for the title. Messi’s influence continues to reshape the playoff landscape.

Messi’s Staggering Statistical Dominance

Messi scored the opening goal and assisted on the following three. He was directly involved in every goal his team scored. His performance was both ruthless and efficient.

Over his last seven appearances, Messi has an incredible 20 goal contributions. This includes both goals and assists for Inter Miami. He is averaging a direct goal involvement every 32 minutes on the pitch.

Mascherano’s Tactical Gambit Pays Off

Coach Javier Mascherano made a surprising lineup decision. He benched veteran striker Luis Suárez for the crucial match. The coach opted for the youthful energy of 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti.

Mascherano explained the strategy to reporters. He said the plan was to press Cincinnati high up the pitch. This aggressive approach effectively neutralized their opponents’ buildup play.

The tactical shift highlights a new team identity. Performance now clearly outweighs reputation within the squad. This cultural change has been pivotal to their playoff success.

Western Conference Provides Playoff Drama

The Western Conference semifinals were equally intense. San Diego FC narrowly defeated Minnesota United FC with a 1-0 scoreline. Anders Dreyer scored the game’s only goal.

Vancouver Whitecaps survived a major scare against LAFC. They won a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw. The match saw a stunning second-half comeback from LAFC.

These results set the stage for a compelling conference final. The winner will face the Eastern Conference champion for the MLS Cup. The path to the final remains fraught with challenges.

Inter Miami’s Transformative Season

The team’s current run contrasts sharply with last season’s disappointment. Their early playoff exit in 2024 now seems a distant memory. The arrival of Messi and a new tactical philosophy has changed everything.

The blend of world-class talent and emerging youth has proven highly effective. Players are thriving in a system that emphasizes high pressure and quick transitions. Team cohesion appears stronger than ever before.

The Road to the MLS Cup Final

Inter Miami will now face New York City FC in the Eastern Conference final. NYCFC advanced by defeating the Philadelphia Union. That match will also be held in Fort Lauderdale.

Miami remains the only semifinalist yet to face a penalty shootout. This could become a factor in the high-stakes games ahead. The pressure will only intensify from this point forward.

Messi’s leadership has fundamentally altered Inter Miami’s championship prospects. The team’s dramatic improvement makes them the one to beat in the 2025 MLS playoffs. Their quest for a first MLS Cup continues with immense momentum.

Thought you’d like to know

How many goals does Messi have in the 2025 MLS playoffs?

Messi has scored multiple goals throughout the playoff run. His precise tally is updated by official MLS statistics. His scoring rate remains exceptionally high.

Who will Inter Miami play in the Eastern Conference final?

Inter Miami is scheduled to face New York City FC. The match will determine who advances to the MLS Cup final. Miami will have homefield advantage.

What was the score of the Vancouver vs LAFC match?

The match ended 2-2 after extra time. Vancouver Whitecaps eventually won through a penalty shootout. It was a tense and dramatic encounter.

Why was Luis Suárez benched for the semifinal?

Coach Mascherano opted for a tactical approach emphasizing high pressing. He selected a younger lineup to execute this strategy effectively. The decision was purely tactical according to team sources.

Where is the 2025 MLS Cup final being held?

The location for the MLS Cup final is determined by the regular season record of the finalists. The team with the better record will host the championship match. This adds significance to every regular season game.