In great form, the Argentine striker showed total efficiency. He opened the scoring with an unusual diving header (19th), then delivered three assists for Mateo Silvetti (57th) and Tadeo Allende (62nd, 74th).
Record performance for Messi
Messi thus broke a performance record during the play-offs by becoming the most decisive player in a campaign with six goals and six assists (12), surpassing the record set by Ante Razov (10) in 1999. He also reached the impressive mark of 1,300 career goals and assists (896 goals, 404 assists). Inter Miami, launched in 2020 in MLS, will face Philadelphia in the conference final on Sunday.
Mascherano’s strong tactical choice
The other highlight of the evening was coach Javier Mascherano’s tactical decision to leave Luis Suárez, returning from suspension, on the bench.
The Uruguayan entered the second half (76th) when the score was already established. Mascherano justified his choice by praising the player’s attitude: “For me, it’s not an easy decision to have to replace a player like Luis, with his record… But I must also say that his way of handling the situation is admirable… he understood, he supported his teammates, he trained as well as possible, he was always a great support. » He concluded by emphasizing Suárez’s commitment: “He demonstrated all his greatness as a player and as a person… he sent a strong message above all to his teammates. »
