Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are now just a match away from reaching the MLS Cup, triumphing over FC Cincinnati with a decisive 4-0 score at TQL Stadium on Sunday. As throughout the postseason, the Herons significantly relied on Messi’s talents, who not only netted the opening goal with a header in the first half but also recorded three assists, contributing to every goal scored in the match. This marks his sixth goal of the current MLS Cup playoffs, but impressively, the victory highlights teamwork rather than individual effort from the Argentine superstar.
LIONEL MESSI LOVES A BIG GAME. ✨
What a move to open the scoring! // Audi MLS Cup Playoffs pic.twitter.com/l0L3miaYYZ
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) November 23, 2025
With Luis Suarez back from his suspension, manager Javier Mascherano faced a crucial decision on whether to reinstate him into the lineup or maintain the 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti. Mascherano opted for Silvetti, who delivered a commendable performance, assisting Messi’s initial goal before scoring himself to elevate the Miami lead to 2-0. Despite having just six appearances for Inter Miami since moving from Newell’s Old Boys in August, Silvetti’s movements and synergy with Messi and Tadeo Allende made it seem as if he had been a key player for the entire season, while Suarez watched from the sidelines.
As a 38-year-old, Suarez’s time with the club might be concluding, paving the way for the next star forward of Inter Miami, embodied in Silvetti as he continues to shine with a goal and two assists across two playoff games. Leaving Silvetti out of the starting XI for the Eastern Conference final could prove difficult for Mascherano, especially with Miami yet to capture a trophy this season. Completing the season with an MLS Cup victory would serve as a triumphant conclusion, potentially developing a meaningful backdrop against the forthcoming debut of Miami Freedom Park in 2026.
If New York City FC can overcome the Philadelphia Union on Saturday night, Miami will not only host the Eastern Conference final but would also secure home-field advantage for the rest of the playoffs, owing to their superior points in the Supporters’ Shield standings. Conversely, should the Union win, they would take the honors for hosting the final.
Inter Miami has performed well both home and away, having stabilized their gameplay during the playoffs. Nearing the season’s end, Mascherano entrusted Rocco Rios Novo with the starting goalkeeper position over Oscar Ustari, a decision that he has successfully executed. Key tactical changes have ensured that Miami maintained more than 200 minutes without conceding a goal in the playoffs, largely thanks to decisions like bringing in Rios Novo.
Messi’s influence on the team is undeniable, having been involved in every Miami goal this postseason. However, the management and responses to adversity, exemplified brilliantly by Mascherano, have proven vital for the team’s success. Additionally, this match extended the competitive careers of veterans Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, both retiring at season’s end, while Evander and the FC Cincinnati squad now face a lengthy offseason contemplating opportunities missed during this playoff run.
Still, Miami marches on, laser-focused on securing the MLS Cup title as they overcome every challenge in an exhilarating postseason.
