Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass in resilience as Inter Miami rallied from behind to secure a thrilling 5-3 victory over Cincinnati on the road. The Argentine superstar netted twice, but his quest for a hat-trick ended in bizarre fashion when a late shot deflected off the post and into the net off opposing goalkeeper Roman Celentano—a goal officially credited to the unfortunate keeper.
The drama unfolded early when Messi opened the scoring midway through the first half, as a clearance from Matt Miazga ricocheted off the forward and into the net. However, Cincinnati responded swiftly, leveling from the penalty spot just four minutes before halftime after Kevin Denkey was fouled in the box. Denkey himself converted the spot kick with composure.
The hosts seized the lead just four minutes into the second half, as Pavel Bucha ghosted in unmarked at the far post to slot home. But Messi, ever the game-changer, equalized six minutes later with a clinical finish that capped off a crisp passing move, showcasing Miami's fluid attack.
Cincinnati refused to back down, with Evander restoring their advantage just after the hour mark with a thunderous shot from outside the box. Yet Inter Miami's depth proved decisive. Substitute Mateo Silvetti cut in from the left to level the score with 11 minutes remaining, setting the stage for a frantic finish.
The turning point came with six minutes left, as German Berterame capitalized on a collision between a Cincinnati defender and Celentano, pouncing on a loose ball to put Miami ahead. Then, in stoppage time, Messi thought he had his third, steering Silvetti's cross toward goal. The ball struck the post and rebounded off the prone Celentano before crossing the line, but the goal was awarded to the goalkeeper—a cruel twist for the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner.
The victory lifts Inter Miami to second in the MLS Eastern Conference standings, just two points behind leaders Nashville. With Messi in this form, Miami's title ambitions look increasingly realistic, and fans will be eager to see if this comeback sparks a defining run in the season.