Messi Sparks Inter Miami's 4-1 Win on MLS Return
Right from the first whistle in Montréal, there was no shortage of fireworks. Less than two minutes in, Montréal’s P. Owusu shocked the home crowd with a rapid-fire strike, catching Inter Miami off guard and putting the hosts up 1-0. For a few fleeting moments, it looked like the Canadian side might finally snap their winless skid.
But things move quickly in the MLS, especially when Lionel Messi is on the pitch. Coming back from their run in the FIFA Club World Cup, Inter Miami showed no signs of rust. Despite falling behind early, the Florida side locked in. At the 33rd minute, Tomás Allende pounced on a Montréal defensive mistake, slotting in the equalizer that immediately steadied Miami. The visitors turned it up from there, buzzing with intent and precision.
Messi Headlines Miami’s Ruthless Attack
The night truly belonged to Lionel Messi. Just before halftime in the 40th minute, Messi took control inside the box and whipped a trademark finish past Montréal’s goalkeeper. He celebrated with his teammates, showing the kind of confidence that’s made him a legend on two continents. With the score now 2-1, Miami seized control of the tempo and didn’t let go.
The real damage came in the second half. At the hour mark, Tófoli Segovia capped off a slick Miami move for their third goal, practically sealing Montréal’s fate. Montréal looked stunned—defensive gaps widened, and Messi found even more space to operate.
In the 62nd minute, the Argentine wizard struck again, converting expertly for his second goal of the night. That made it 4-1, putting the game beyond Montréal’s reach and confirming Messi’s status as the most electric player in the league this season.
- Messi’s two goals bring his MLS tally up again, and he looked unstoppable every time he touched the ball.
- Tomás Allende and Tófoli Segovia proved Miami’s attack is more than a one-man show.
- Owusu’s early opener for Montréal was one of few highlights for the hosts, who struggled to keep up after their fast start.
This was Inter Miami’s first MLS outing after a break for the international Club World Cup, but they picked up where they left off. With the win, Miami’s record improved to 5-3-0, tightening their grip near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Meanwhile, Montréal’s troubles are mounting, now sitting at 0-3-6 with little to cheer about in front of their fans.
The match was broadcast live for US viewers on Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass, and global fans followed along using VPN workarounds. While tech-savvy Montréal fans looked for any silver lining, most were left pondering the team’s defensive frailties and winless streak after another tough home loss.
No doubt about it, Messi continues to make the MLS his playground. When he gets on the ball and Miami goes into full attack mode, few teams can cope. For any fans who missed the match, this was another reminder that whenever Miami and Messi are on the schedule, you’re in for a show.
