Messi Scores Four as Miami Crush Montreal 7-1

MIAMI: (Sports Desk) — Lionel Messi scored four goals as Inter Miami ended their five-match winless run with a commanding 7-1 victory over Montreal in Major League Soccer on Saturday.

Miami had struggled since the resumption of league action, losing four of their previous five matches. However, the reigning MLS Cup champions produced a dominant display against Montreal, who remain near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.

Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who joined Miami following the World Cup, opened his account for the club in the 20th minute. He rose to meet a cross and headed the ball into the net to give Miami an early lead.

Montreal responded in the 37th minute when German midfielder Fabian Herbers fired a low effort from the edge of the penalty area into the bottom corner.

Miami restored their advantage just three minutes later. Messi’s low, curling free-kick appeared to catch Montreal goalkeeper Thomas Gillier off guard as it found its way into the net.

Messi Takes Control

Messi doubled his personal tally shortly after half-time, using his momentum to weave through several Montreal defenders before sending a low shot into the bottom corner.

The Argentine then played a crucial role in Miami’s fourth goal, producing an excellent pass for former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez, who calmly finished the opportunity.

Messi completed his hat-trick in the 83rd minute after receiving a pass from Rodrigo De Paul. He delicately lifted the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to put Miami 5-1 ahead.

Teenage substitute Alex Shaw added another in the 89th minute, striking a low effort from outside the box.

There was still time for Messi to complete his remarkable four-goal performance. The veteran forward curled another trademark free-kick into the net deep into stoppage time, completing Miami’s emphatic 7-1 victory.

The result moves Inter Miami into second place in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville, who had a game scheduled later on Saturday.