Video: Lionel Messi scores stunning goal in Inter Miami’s blowout win over New York Red Bulls

After their semifinal exit in the Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami now have their sights set on Major League Soccer. And this Saturday against New York Red Bulls, they made a strong statement with a commanding 4-1 win at Chase Stadium. Lionel Messi scored one of the goals with a spectacular left-footed strike.

From the start of the match, the Herons showed they were better prepared to take on this clash. In fact, just eight minutes into the first half, they opened the scoring through a cross from Marcelo Weigandt, which was flicked on by Luis Suarez and reached Fafa Picault inside the box. The winger struck it in one motion and beat goalkeeper Carlos Coronel.

Not content with just one goal, Inter Miami kept pushing forward and were rewarded in the 30th minute, when Weigandt pounced on a rebound inside the box and scored amid confusion from the opposing defenders. However, there was a brief moment of suspense after the goal, as VAR called referee Ismir Pekmic to review a possible offside—something that was ultimately ruled out.

Luis Suarez ends goal drought

The defensive gaps left by New York Red Bulls made Saturday night’s match the perfect opportunity for Luis Suarez to break his nine-game scoring drought across MLS and the Concacaf Champions Cup.

In the 39th minute, Messi played a deep pass to Tadeo Allende, who approached the box and sent in a drilled cross that found the Uruguayan striker. Suarez’s initial shot was soft and blocked by a defender, but he didn’t give up—he chased down the rebound and fired a powerful left-footed strike that left Coronel with no chance.

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Messi scores a beautiful goal

Although Eric Choupo-Moting pulled one back for New York Red Bulls just before the end of the first half, it didn’t change the flow of the match. After the break, Inter Miami remained in control, and through Messi, they found their fourth goal of the night.

In the 21st minute, Leo picked up the ball outside the opponent’s box, linked up with Telasco Segovia for two quick passes, and found himself face-to-face with the goalkeeper, pressured by two defenders. He took his time to create space and fired a powerful left-footed shot that found the back of the net. It was Messi’s eighth goal in 13 matches for the Herons this year.

What’s next for Inter Miami?

With their 4-1 victory over New York Red Bulls, Inter Miami now have 21 points in MLS and sit in fourth place in the standings, just three points behind leaders Columbus Crew. However, the Herons have an advantage in the race for the top spot: they have played one game fewer, meaning they could potentially be the leaders of the Eastern Conference as well. Their next match is Saturday, May 10, against Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field.