Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass, scoring twice to propel Inter Miami to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Colorado Rapids on Saturday. The win extends Miami's impressive unbeaten streak to seven games, a run of form that has firmly established them as a force in MLS.

The Argentine maestro opened the scoring with a coolly-taken penalty in the 13th minute. After the Rapids fought back to level the match at 2-2, Messi provided the decisive moment of magic in the 79th minute. Pouncing on a turnover, he cut inside from the right, weaving past defenders before unleashing a pinpoint shot that curled inside the far post for the game-winner.

Messi's brace brings his season tally to seven goals, putting him in a three-way tie for the league's Golden Boot lead. His partnership with the in-form Germán Berterame is proving lethal; Berterame headed home a cross just before halftime for his second goal in as many games since earning a starting role.

While Miami's attack shone, the team showed resilience in weathering a late challenge. Playing a man down after Yannick Bright's 87th-minute red card, they held firm to secure three vital points. This gritty performance, combining individual brilliance with collective determination, is the hallmark of a team hitting its stride. For the Rapids, who had been on a strong run themselves, the defeat was a harsh lesson in the difficulty of containing a player of Messi's caliber.