FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance as Inter Miami stormed past the New York Red Bulls with a commanding 4-1 victory at Chase Stadium on May 3. The Argentine maestro found the net in the 67th minute, sealing Miami’s triumph and snapping their three-game losing streak across all competitions.
First-Half Blitz Sets the Tone
Inter Miami wasted no time asserting dominance. Fafa Picault opened the scoring in the 9th minute, capitalizing on a well-placed cross from Marcelo Weigandt. The home side doubled their lead in the 30th minute, with Weigandt himself heading home a rebound after his initial attempt was blocked.
Just nine minutes later, Luis Suárez ended his personal nine-match scoreless drought, slotting in a left-footed strike to put Miami up 3-0. The Red Bulls responded before halftime, as Mohammed Sofo pulled one back in the 43rd minute, keeping the visitors within reach.
Messi’s Moment of Brilliance
With Miami comfortably ahead, Messi put the game beyond doubt in the second half. In the 67th minute, he combined with Telasco Segovia in a slick one-two before unleashing a left-footed rocket past the Red Bulls’ goalkeeper. The goal marked Messi’s fourth of the MLS season and his eighth across all competitions in 2025.
Defensive Discipline & Tactical Control
Despite the scoreline, possession was evenly split at 50% each, showcasing a tactical battle between both sides. Miami’s defense remained resolute, with Oscar Ustari making crucial stops to deny the Red Bulls any chance of a comeback.
Playoff Implications & What’s Next
The victory propelled Inter Miami to fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings with 21 points (6 wins, 1 loss, 3 draws). Meanwhile, the Red Bulls, last season’s MLS Cup finalists, remain in ninth place with 15 points (4 wins, 4 losses, 3 draws).
Messi and Miami will now embark on a two-game road trip, facing Minnesota United on May 10 and San Jose Earthquakes on May 14. With momentum back on their side, Miami will look to build on this emphatic win.
