Lionel Messi continues to dominate Major League Soccer, delivering another extraordinary performance in Inter Miami’s commanding 5-1 victory over New York Red Bulls on Saturday. The Argentine icon struck twice in the second half and also provided two assists, once again proving why he is regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Messi’s dazzling display was praised by Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, who has shared the field with Messi at FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team. Speaking post-match, Mascherano stated, “I spent eight years with him in different places — Barcelona, Argentina, hotels, airports — and even now, whenever he travels to unfamiliar locations, people lose their minds. The admiration is total. He’s not just an incredible footballer, but a global role model. Messi is on the same level as legends like Michael Jordan and Rafael Nadal. Athletes who’ve rewritten the history of their sport.”
Inter Miami’s Telasco Segovia also added his voice to the praise, expressing joy after scoring and securing the team’s dominant win. “I’m happy about the goal and the result. We’re determined to win both the MLS and the Leagues Cup. With Messi on our side, anything is possible.”
The match also featured a goal from Jordi Alba, another former Barcelona star, while Alexander Hack netted a consolation goal for the NY Red Bulls. Despite the victory, Mascherano showed concern over Messi and Alba’s inclusion in the upcoming MLS All-Star game. “There’s been a lot of travel, limited rest, and we saw signs of fatigue against Cincinnati. Now that we have a full week, the focus will be on recovery for our most exhausted players,” he said.
He emphasized the need for further improvement, particularly in defense. “If we want to be truly competitive, our defensive stability has to improve. We’ve done okay, but there’s room for growth,” Mascherano concluded.
As the season progresses, Lionel Messi’s influence on Inter Miami and MLS continues to reach new heights, blending magic on the field with leadership off it.
