WATCH: Messi nets double in Inter Miami's win vs. FC Cincinnati
Lionel Messi appeared to score three goals in a single MLS match for the third time since joining Inter Miami, but his last goal was changed to an own goal, meaning his brace helped his team to a 5-3 victory over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, May 13.
Messi was on the mark in the 24th minute and the 55th minute, with his 89th-minute goal changed to a Roman Celentano own goal.
Messi has scored his two MLS hat tricks on Decision Day, the final day of the MLS regular season. He logged those on the last day of the 2024 and 2025 regular seasons.
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Messi's third goal was reviewed and credited as an own goal. The Argentine slid to get a touch on a pass toward the penalty spot from Mateo Silvetti and put his shot off the post. It appeared to ricochet off FC Cincinnati goalkeeper Celentano.
How many goals does Lionel Messi have this MLS season?
Messi's double takes his count to 11 goals in 13 MLS matches.
He opened the scoring with a deflection, sticking his leg out and directing in an attempted clearance from FC Cincinnati center back Matt Miazga.
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The second goal was more typical of Messi's usual scoring opportunities. The 38-year-old took possession of the ball near midfield and, after passing to a teammate, pushed into the final third. There, he worked with Luis Suarez in tight space near the top of the box, and the Uruguayan forward swung the ball wide to Rodrigo De Paul. Messi charged toward the penalty spot and finished with his left foot when the ball re-entered the box.
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Inter Miami pushed its road record to 7-1-1, but the Herons now return to South Florida for a Sunday night contest against the Portland Timbers.
Miami is yet to win a match in its new home, Nu Stadium, which opened in April.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lionel Messi scores two goals in Inter Miami win at Cincinnati
