BY Nadia Ntiamoah
Lionel Messi delivered another extraordinary individual performance on Saturday, scoring four goals as Inter Miami returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion with a record-breaking 7-1 victory over CF Montréal.
The Argentine superstar was at the centre of Miami’s dominant display, producing moments of brilliance throughout the match to help the club end a five-game winless run across all competitions and record its biggest victory in club history.
Messi opened his account in the 40th minute when his free kick took a deflection on its way into the net. He doubled Miami’s advantage seven minutes into the second half after embarking on a stunning solo run before finishing the move himself.
The 39-year-old then turned provider, setting up former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez before completing his hat-trick with seven minutes of regulation time remaining. Messi produced another spectacular moment deep into stoppage time, curling a free kick with his trademark precision into the top corner to complete the four-goal performance.
The feat marked the eighth occasion in Messi’s illustrious career that he has scored at least four goals in a single match. It was also his first four-goal game since joining Inter Miami. His previous four-goal performance came in February 2020, when he achieved the feat for Barcelona against Eibar in LaLiga.
Messi’s remarkable scoring form has also strengthened his position at the top of the MLS scoring chart. He now has 18 goals in 19 league appearances, moving two goals clear of FC Dallas forward Peter Musa.
The victory was particularly important for Inter Miami after a difficult spell. The club had not won an MLS match since July 25 and had gone five games without victory in all competitions, including matches in the Leagues Cup.
Miami’s victory also came amid an unusual coaching situation. Interim head coach Guillermo Hoyos was suspended for the encounter, leaving assistant coach Rafael Pérez to take charge from the touchline.
The club had announced Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez as Hoyos’ permanent successor earlier in the week, but the new coach is still awaiting his work permit before officially beginning his duties.
Despite the absence of the incoming head coach, Miami made an explosive start. Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who joined the club during the summer, opened the scoring with his first goal for the team.
