In a thrilling MLS encounter, Inter Miami CF delivered a resounding 5-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, with Lionel Messi putting on yet another unforgettable performance. Fans at the Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey witnessed a footballing masterclass as the Herons turned an early setback into a goal fest.
First Half: Red Bulls Start Strong, But Miami Responds
The match began with promise for the Red Bulls. Defender Alexander Hack opened the scoring early, heading home from a well-placed corner in the 15th minute. The home crowd erupted, sensing that the momentum was with them.
However, Inter Miami quickly changed the narrative. Just nine minutes later, a slick passing move involving Sergio Busquets and Luis Suárez ended with Lionel Messi finding Jordi Alba, who calmly slotted home the equalizer.
Before the Red Bulls could recover, Telasco Segovia made his presence felt. In the 27th minute, he fired Miami into the lead after another sharp assist by Alba, this time set up by Messi. As halftime approached, Segovia added his second goal in stoppage time, extending the score to 3-1.
Second Half: Messi Steals the Show
The second half was all about Messi. In the 60th minute, he weaved past defenders, beat the goalkeeper, and finished with ease to make it 4-1.
Then came the moment of the night. A lofted cross from Luis Suárez found Messi, who controlled it on his chest before coolly finishing for his second goal of the night. With that, Inter Miami were cruising at 5-1.
Standout Performers
Lionel Messi
- 2 Goals
- 2 Assists
- Unstoppable on and off the ball.
This was Messi’s fourth multi-goal performance in just seven games, and his impact continues to elevate Inter Miami’s campaign.
Telasco Segovia
- 2 Goals in First Half
- Proved to be the unexpected hero alongside Messi and Alba.
Jordi Alba
- 1 Goal
- 1 Assist
- A constant attacking threat down the left wing.
Alexander Hack (Red Bulls)
- Scored the opening goal
- Was a solid presence early on, but overwhelmed as the game progressed.
Tactical Analysis
- Red Bulls pressed early, capitalizing on set-pieces. But their defense couldn’t handle the fluid movement and triangle passing between Messi, Alba, and Suárez.
- Inter Miami used possession efficiently, often skipping midfield lines and playing direct balls to Messi and Alba on the flanks.
- Transition play was key—Miami turned defense into attack in seconds, often leaving Red Bulls exposed at the back.
What This Means for the Season
Inter Miami
With this victory, Inter Miami have now won six of their last seven matches, continuing their rise in the Eastern Conference standings. The team looks well-balanced, confident, and dangerous—especially with Messi in top form.
New York Red Bulls
The Red Bulls have now suffered another crushing home defeat, raising concerns about defensive frailty and inconsistency. With playoffs approaching, they’ll need to regroup quickly and fix their defensive lapses.
Reactions and Buzz
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano praised his team’s composure and Messi’s leadership. The Argentine star’s presence continues to draw packed stadiums and ignite global attention for the MLS.
Red Bulls coach Sandro Schwarz, however, expressed disappointment at the officiating and his side’s inability to respond after conceding.
Fans chanted “Messi! Messi!” throughout the match, even though it was a Red Bulls home game—further proof of the global icon’s unmatched influence.
Final Thoughts
This game was a perfect example of why Messi’s arrival in MLS has transformed the league. From tight passing to flawless finishing, Inter Miami displayed what top-level football looks like.
A 5-1 win away from home—with two goals and two assists from Messi—is not just a statement, it’s a warning to every other MLS team: Inter Miami are here to dominate.