Messi Seizes Golden Boot Lead as Inter Miami Edges D.C. United in Thrilling 3-2 Victory: Player Ratings

Lionel Messi netted twice and provided an assist as Inter Miami CF claimed their second straight victory with a thrilling 3–2 triumph over D.C. United on Saturday evening.

Operating with a limited roster and featuring two players born in 2007 on the matchday squad, Miami leaned heavily on their experienced players to guide them through. Following an uncertain beginning from 38-year-old goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, he regained his composure and enabled the Herons to attack with greater assurance. 

The home side broke the deadlock in the 36th minute when Messi retreated into space within his own half, before delivering an exquisite, curved long pass to Tadeo Allende, who finished clinically with his first touch after outmaneuvering his marker. 

D.C. United equalized in the 53rd minute through former Premier League striker Christian Benteke, though the balance was quickly restored. 

Messi found the net for the first time in the 66th minute with an elegant pivot at the edge of the penalty area following a pass from Jordi Alba, then added his second strike as Miami's decisive goal with a curved effort from range in the 85th minute. 

Following their go-ahead goal, Miami faced defensive challenges, with Benteke dissecting the Herons' midfield and slipping a pass to Jacob Murrell to narrow the deficit, though it came too late to salvage any points. 

A victory could have secured the Herons an MLS Cup Playoff berth, but they must wait longer, as the New York Red Bulls defeated CF Montréal, and Miami required a Red Bulls defeat or stalemate. 

While playoff confirmation must be postponed, Messi overtook Nashville SC's Sam Surridge in the MLS Golden Boot competition, tallying 22 goals compared to Surridge's 21.

Here are the player ratings from the encounter.

Inter Miami Player Ratings vs. D.C. United (4-3-3)

Ratings Provided by FotMob

D.C. United Player Ratings vs. Inter Miami (4-3-3)

Ratings Provided by FotMob