Lionel Messi scored twice and created two more goals as Inter Miami warmed up for the Club World Cup with a 5-1 win over the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer on Saturday.
Miami’s victory was a boost to their confidence ahead of the new FIFA tournament, which they will open on June 14 against Egyptian and African champions Al Ahly.
Messi was instrumental in Miami’s win, scoring two goals and creating two others.
The Argentine superstar’s performance was a testament to his exceptional skill and vision on the field.
Miami’s win was also fueled by some uncharacteristically loose defending from Columbus, who have been one of the most consistent performers in MLS over the past three seasons.
The Match Highlights
- Tadeo Allende opened the scoring for Miami in the 13th minute with a goal set up by Messi.
- Messi scored his first goal in the 15th minute after Columbus goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen hesitated with the ball at his feet.
- Messi scored his second goal in the 24th minute with a beautifully lobbed shot over the advancing Hagen.
- Columbus pulled one back through Cesar Ruvalcaba’s thundering header in the 58th minute.
- Miami restored their three-goal advantage when Luis Suarez scored after a pass from Messi in the 64th minute.
- Substitute Fafa Picault sealed the win for Miami with a clinical finish set up by Messi.
Messi will now join Argentina for international duty, playing against Chile on Thursday and hosting Colombia on June 10.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, will focus on their Club World Cup campaign, starting with their match against Al Ahly on June 14.
