Inter Miami Crushes Montréal 4–1 as Messi Shines Again

On July 5, 2025, Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains a global football icon as Inter Miami thrashed CF Montréal 4–1 at Stade Saputo. This was Miami’s first Major League Soccer match since their exit from the Club World Cup, and the team looked sharp, hungry, and confident. Despite going down early to a quick goal by Montréal’s Prince Owusu in the 2nd minute, Inter Miami bounced back in style. Messi, supported by Luis Suárez and a rising star in Tadeo Allende, orchestrated a fluid and commanding comeback.

Allende equalized in the 33rd minute with a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box, set up brilliantly by Messi. Just six minutes later, Messi got on the scoresheet himself, curling in a beautiful finish into the bottom left corner from Suárez’s headed pass. Montréal, who came into the match struggling at the bottom of the Eastern Conference table, couldn’t regain their early momentum. In the second half, Inter Miami’s dominance became more apparent as Telasco Segovia made it 3–1 with a calm finish in the 60th minute, thanks to another Allende assist. Two minutes later, Messi capped off the night with a signature solo run, dancing past defenders and finishing coolly for his second goal of the game.

Tactical Masterclass and Season Implications

Under head coach Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami controlled the game with 57.7% possession and ten shots on target. The midfield trio, marshaled by Sergio Busquets, created space and maintained tempo, allowing Miami to counter with deadly precision. Messi’s link-up with Suárez and Allende was key, while the defense recovered quickly from the early setback. Montréal, despite the home advantage, struggled to cope with Miami’s pressing and movement, managing only eight shots in the entire match.

This result pushes Inter Miami to 32 points from 17 matches, placing them solidly in playoff contention with their third straight MLS win. Messi, now on 12 league goals this season and recently passing 50 total goals for the club, continues to play at the highest level. Tadeo Allende’s breakout performance also adds new attacking depth to a side that already boasts global stars. For Montréal, this heavy defeat adds pressure, as their record drops to 3 wins, 13 losses, and 5 draws. The team must quickly regroup to avoid sinking further into the Eastern Conference standings.

Inter Miami’s resounding win away from home sends a clear message: they’re back in MLS with serious intent. With Messi in top form and new names stepping up, fans can expect more fireworks in the weeks ahead. Their next home game will be crucial as they aim to climb even higher, while Montréal faces urgent questions about defense and form.

Image: Lionel Messi in action during Inter Miami’s game vs CF Montréal (Getty Images editorial photo)