Messi Scores Twice as Inter Miami Wins 4-0 Over D.C. United

Messi shines after Argentina farewell

Lionel Messi returned to club action on Saturday with a strong performance, scoring twice in a 4-0 win for Inter Miami against D.C. United at Nu Stadium. The match took place four days after he played his final game for Argentina in Buenos Aires, where he scored his 126th international goal against Benin.

The 39 year old forward showed no signs of slowing down. His team took control early as Luis Suárez scored twice in the first half. Messi then got his first goal in the 47th minute, finishing a pass from Suárez from close range.

Chasing titles and individual awards

Messi scored his second goal with a quick cutback to beat defenders before placing the ball into the bottom corner of the net. That strike brought his league leading total to 23 goals for the season.

He also has 13 assists in 2026 and has now registered a goal contribution in 10 straight MLS games for the first time. He holds a four goal lead in the Golden Boot race and continues to build his case for a third straight MVP award.

The victory pushed Inter Miami back into second place in the Eastern Conference. The club wants a top four seed and home field advantage when the playoffs begin next month as they try to repeat as MLS Cup champions. Messi remains under contract with Miami through 2028.

Miami coach Cristian "Kily" González spoke about his player after the match. He said, "He'll be missed in that jersey, of course, but today we have him here, and we have to enjoy having him with us now."

What it means for the next game

D.C. United vs Red Bull New York (MLS, Wed, 14 Oct): D.C. United win 33%, draw 29%, Red Bull New York win 38%; expected goals 1.17 to 1.28. Our safest pick: Under 3.5 goals.

Inter Miami CF vs New York City FC (MLS, Wed, 14 Oct): Inter Miami CF win 51%, draw 23%, New York City FC win 26%; expected goals 2.02 to 1.40. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.