Lionel Messi delivered a performance for the ages, orchestrating a stunning 4-0 triumph over FC Cincinnati on Sunday, November 23, 2025, to propel Inter Miami CF into the MLS Eastern Conference Final for the first time in the club’s history. This pivotal Inter Miami Eastern Final victory, achieved on the road at TQL Stadium, solidifies Miami’s deepest MLS Cup Playoff run to date and marks a significant milestone for the relatively young franchise. The Inter Miami Eastern Final represents a monumental step for the club.
Messi’s Record-Breaking Brilliance in the Inter Miami Eastern Final
At the heart of Inter Miami’s historic achievement in the Inter Miami Eastern Final was their talismanic captain, Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar was instrumental in the decisive victory, scoring the opening goal and providing three crucial assists. His remarkable display not only set the tone for the match but also saw him etch his name further into the MLS record books. Messi’s performance pushed his total goal contributions in the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs to an astounding 12 (six goals and six assists), a new league record for a single postseason. This tally means Messi has been directly involved in every single goal Inter Miami has scored in the current playoff campaign leading to this Inter Miami Eastern Final.
His opening goal came in the 19th minute, a header from a precise cross delivered by young winger Mateo Silvetti. This strike marked Messi’s sixth goal of the postseason and his first-ever against FC Cincinnati. The legendary forward’s influence extended beyond his own scoring, as he masterfully set up his teammates throughout the match, showcasing his unparalleled vision and playmaking abilities, all critical for this Inter Miami Eastern Final appearance.
A Collective Masterclass Under Mascherano for the Inter Miami Eastern Final
While Messi’s brilliance was undeniable, Inter Miami’s success in reaching the Inter Miami Eastern Final was a testament to a cohesive team effort orchestrated by head coach Javier Mascherano. The team displayed incredible personality and executed a near-perfect game plan, as noted by Mascherano post-match. The strategy involved absorbing Cincinnati’s early pressure and striking clinically on the counter-attack, a key element in securing their place in the Inter Miami Eastern Final.
Beyond Messi, other key contributors ensured the rout. Tadeo Allende netted a brace in the second half, further cementing his impressive postseason form, while 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti scored his first goal for the club and also provided an assist. The decision by Mascherano to opt for a more youthful front four, including Silvetti, instead of veteran Luis Suárez (who was available after suspension) proved to be a strategic masterstroke, highlighting the team’s depth and tactical flexibility on their path to the Inter Miami Eastern Final.
Historic Milestone for Inter Miami CF: Reaching the Inter Miami Eastern Final
Reaching the Eastern Conference Final is a landmark moment for Inter Miami CF, a club that only joined Major League Soccer as an expansion team in 2020. This advancement signifies their deepest foray into the MLS Cup Playoffs in their short history. The club has rapidly transformed from its expansion phase into a formidable contender, particularly since the high-profile arrivals of Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba in 2023. This season’s journey has already seen them achieve significant success, including winning the Leagues Cup in 2023, and now they stand just one win away from a potential MLS Cup appearance after this momentous Inter Miami Eastern Final.
The club’s trajectory under Mascherano has been impressive, marked by strong performances and tactical discipline. This win over FC Cincinnati, a team that has historically posed challenges and suffered heartbreaking home eliminations in recent postseasons, underscores Miami’s current standing as one of the league’s elite as they prepare for the Inter Miami Eastern Final.
Looking Ahead to the Inter Miami Eastern Final
Inter Miami’s dominant victory over FC Cincinnati sets up a highly anticipated Eastern Conference Final clash against New York City FC. NYCFC secured their spot by upsetting the Supporters’ Shield-winning Philadelphia Union. The Inter Miami Eastern Final will be a single-elimination match, with the winner advancing to the MLS Cup final on December 6th. Inter Miami will host this crucial encounter at Chase Stadium, marking another significant first for the club – playing for the Eastern Conference title on home soil, a direct result of their impressive Inter Miami Eastern Final performance.
The current news surrounding Inter Miami CF paints a picture of a club on an unprecedented upward trajectory, fueled by the unparalleled talent of Lionel Messi and the strategic guidance of its coaching staff. The journey continues as they aim to capture their first MLS Cup, adding another chapter to the rapidly unfolding narrative of this dynamic Miami team in the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Soccer, all building towards the ultimate goal after securing this vital Inter Miami Eastern Final.
