Messi Scores Twice in First Game Since Argentina Farewell as Inter Miami Thrash DC United 4-0

Lionel Messi wasted no time refocusing on domestic ambitions on Saturday night, delivering a second-half brace in his first match since officially retiring from international duty as Inter Miami routed D.C. United 4–0 at Nu Stadium in Miami.

Playing the full 90 minutes just four nights after bidding an emotional farewell to Argentina in a 3–0 friendly victory against Benin—where he netted his 126th and final international goal—the 39-year-old maestro looked sharp, dynamic, and unburdened. Supported by a clinical first-half double from longtime attacking partner Luis Suárez, Messi took over the second half to help Miami snap a stubborn five-match winless streak in style.

Suárez Sparks the Rout Before Messi Takes Command

Inter Miami set the tone within three minutes of kickoff when Luis Suárez collected possession inside the penalty area and slotted home a low left-footed drive. The Uruguayan doubled Miami’s advantage in the 39th minute with another sharp finish, putting the hosts firmly in command heading into the halftime break.

Two minutes into the second half, Messi joined the scoresheet. Suárez turned provider in the 47th minute, threading a pass into the box for Messi to guide past the goalkeeper.

Thirteen minutes later, Messi produced his signature highlight. Receiving the ball near the center circle from Rodrigo De Paul, Messi drove toward the D.C. United penalty area, maneuvered past two defenders with close control, and placed a curling left-footed finish into the bottom-right corner to seal the 4–0 triumph.

Match Summary: Inter Miami CF vs. D.C. United

Golden Boot Pace and Standings Resurgence

The victory delivers crucial momentum for Inter Miami as they gear up for the MLS postseason:

• MLS Golden Boot Front-Runner: Messi’s two-goal performance takes his regular-season tally to an MLS-leading 23 goals, complemented by 13 assists, further strengthening his push for a third consecutive MLS Most Valuable Player award.
• Slump Snapped: The win brings an end to Miami’s five-game winless slump (four draws, one defeat), marking their first league victory in nearly a month.
• Climbing the Eastern Conference: The three points lift Inter Miami to 2nd place in the Eastern Conference with 49 points (13 wins, 5 draws, 10 losses), tightening the race at the top of the conference table.

Inter Miami return to action at home on Wednesday night, hosting New York City FC at Nu Stadium.