Messi magic continues: Miami edge Rapids in 3-2 thriller

In a night that once again belonged to Lionel Messi , Inter Miami edged past Colorado Rapids 3-2 in a gripping MLS clash, extending their unbeaten run to seven games and marking a winning start under interim coach Guillermo Hoyos.

Messi, calm and clinical, opened the scoring with a 13th-minute penalty , setting the tone early. The Argentine icon then delivered when it mattered most, scoring the 79th-minute winner with a sharp, instinctive finish that slipped past defenders and into the net.

Before halftime, Germán Berterame made it 2–0 with a powerful header, continuing his impressive start. But the Rapids fought back strongly. Rafael Navarro pulled one back in the 58th minute, and substitute Darren Yapi quickly added another, levelling the game at 2–2 and shifting momentum.

Just as the contest hung in balance, Messi stepped up again, decisive, composed, and unstoppable , to restore Miami’s lead. Despite being reduced to 10 men after Yannick Bright’s red card , Miami showed resilience to hold on under late pressure.

The win also comes during a period of change. Following the sudden exit of Javier Mascherano, who guided the team to the 2025 MLS Cup , Miami appear to be settling quickly under Hoyos.

With seven goals this season , Messi remains among the league’s top scorers, continuing to shape Miami’s campaign with his brilliance. This was more than just a win, it was a reminder that when the moment arrives, Messi still defines it .