Lionel Messi Shines As Inter Miami Edges D.C. United In 3-2 Thriller

Lionel Messi once again reminded everyone why he’s still the face of world football, powering Inter Miami to a thrilling 3-2 victory over D.C. United at Chase Stadium on Saturday, September 20, 2025. The 38-year-old captain delivered two second-half goals and an assist, extending Miami’s unbeaten run and keeping them on course in the MLS Supporters’ Shield race.

Lionel Messi Pulls the Strings Early

The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Messi slipped a clever pass into the path of Tadeo Allende, who finished coolly to give Miami the lead. That assist was Messi’s 12th of the season, tying him for fourth-most in MLS. With the advantage, Inter Miami carried confidence into halftime, but the visitors weren’t about to fold.

D.C. United Fight Back

Just seven minutes after the restart, Christian Benteke equalized with his ninth goal of the campaign, heading home from a Brandon Servania delivery. The Belgian striker, chasing the Golden Boot, breathed new life into D.C. United, and suddenly the contest shifted into a tense back-and-forth battle.

Lionel Messi Takes Over

With the pressure mounting, Messi stamped his authority on the match. In the 66th minute, he latched onto a pinpoint Jordi Alba through-ball, sliced through the defense, and slotted home to restore Miami’s lead. The chemistry between the two former Barcelona teammates was on full display, leaving the D.C. backline scrambling.

But the moment of the night came in the 85th minute. Picking up a pass from Sergio Busquets, Messi cut inside, beat his marker, and curled a stunning shot into the top corner from outside the box. The strike not only sealed the win but also pushed Messi’s tally to 22 goals this season, enough to overtake Nashville’s Sam Surridge in the MLS Golden Boot race.

Holding On Late

D.C. United refused to go quietly, pulling one back in stoppage time through substitute Jacob Murrell. However, Inter Miami’s defense, marshalled by veteran Goalkeeper Óscar Ustari, stood firm. Ustari made several key saves, underlining his value in his 22nd start of the season.

Lionel Messi’s Lasting Impact

With the victory, Inter Miami climbed into fifth place in the Eastern Conference, just eight points behind leaders Philadelphia Union but holding three games in hand. More importantly, Messi’s brilliance continues to fuel Miami’s rise. Supported by Alba and Busquets, his leadership and ability to deliver in decisive moments keep the club firmly in contention for silverware.

At 38, Messi remains the heartbeat of Inter Miami. Saturday’s performance, two goals, one assist, and a match-winning presence- added yet another chapter to his remarkable career, proving that even deep into his late 30s, he’s still capable of bending games to his will.