Lionel Messi Hits The Goal Post From Outside The Box, Leads Inter Miami to 3-2 Victory Over DC United

Lionel Messi was the driving force behind Inter Miami's 3-2 win over D.C. United in Major League Soccer on Saturday night, contributing directly to all three goals. The Argentine superstar assisted the first goal in the opening half and scored twice in the second, underlining his continued dominance in the league.

Messi opened the scoring with a decisive goal in the 66th minute, followed by another strike in the 85th minute, bringing his season tally to 22 goals. This keeps him ahead of Nashville SC's Sam Surridge in the race for the MLS Golden Boot. Reports suggest Messi is close to a contract extension, potentially keeping him at Inter Miami until 2026.

Inter Miami's Squad Strength

The team benefits from the presence of veterans like Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. Alba assisted Messi's first goal, his 10th of the season, while Busquets set up Messi's brace with his seventh assist. First-year midfielder Tadeo Allende also scored his eighth goal of the season, assisted by Messi.

Inter Miami led 1-0 at halftime after Allende's 35th-minute goal, marking Messi's 12th assist of the season, tying him for fourth-most in MLS. The team currently sits fifth in the Eastern Conference and will face New York City FC next at Citi Field.

D.C. United Fight Back

D.C. United equalized in the 53rd minute with Christian Benteke scoring from a Brandon Servania pass, marking Benteke's ninth goal and Servania's third assist of the season. Late in stoppage time, Jacob Murrell added a second goal, narrowing the gap to 3-2.

Inter Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made four saves in his 22nd start, while Luis Barraza of D.C. United also stopped four shots. Despite their efforts, D.C. United remains near the bottom with a 5-16-10 record.

Looking Ahead

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas expressed hope that Messi will feature at the club's new Miami Freedom Park, expected to open next year. With two matches in hand and just one point behind New York City FC, Inter Miami aims to climb the Eastern Conference standings in the coming weeks.