Lionel Messi scores and provides an assist. Image: Inter Miami shared via X.
(The Post News)– Lionel Messi once again delivered a decisive performance, scoring and assisting as Inter Miami defeated the Seattle Sounders 3-1 at Chase Stadium on September 16. The win carried extra weight for Messi’s club, as they finally took revenge for their 3-0 Leagues Cup final defeat to Seattle just two weeks earlier.
With Messi pulling the strings, his club showed determination, efficiency, and firepower, producing one of their most complete MLS displays of the season. The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when Messi, spotting space in Seattle’s backline, threaded a perfect pass to Jordi Alba. The left-back surged forward and fired home to give Miami a deserved 1-0 advantage. That combination set the tone for the evening. The chemistry between the two players, built over years at Barcelona, continues to shine in MLS, offering a level of control and attacking threat few teams can handle.
Alba Assists as Messi Scores
As halftime approached, the duo combined again, but this time the roles were reversed. Alba whipped in a pinpoint cross that found Messi unmarked inside the box, who, with trademark composure, slotted the ball into the net, doubling Miami’s lead and marking his 20th MLS goal of the season. The goal also added to his staggering career numbers, bringing them to 880 goals and 390 assists, reinforcing his reputation as one of football’s greatest players. With both a goal and an assist on the night, Messi was undeniably the star of the show.
Inter Miami extended their advantage in the second half through Ian Fray, whose confident finish made it 3-0. The Sounders responded in the 68th minute with a strike from Jordan Morris, but it proved no more than a consolation as Miami managed the game with maturity.
Seattle, who had dominated Miami in the Leagues Cup final, struggled to match the intensity of their hosts. This time, it was Miami who dictated play and silenced their critics.
The 3-1 victory not only avenged the team’s recent defeat but also lifted them into fifth place in the Eastern Conference, boosting their push for the MLS playoffs. More importantly, it sent a clear message that Inter Miami, led by Messi and Alba, is a force to be reckoned with when it matters most. Nights like this underline Messi’s enduring brilliance and make a statement of resilience and a sweet taste of revenge.
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