Lionel Messi delivers masterclass with goal and assist as Inter Miami beat Portland

Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance on Sunday night, recording a goal and an assist to power Inter Miami CF to a 2-0 victory over the Portland Timbers.

The historic win marked Inter Miami’s very first triumph at their brand-new, 26,000-seat Nu Stadium, snapping a frustrating home streak of three draws and a loss.

The Argentine superstar broke the deadlock in the 31st minute after driving forward from outside the penalty area.

Luis Suarez initiated the sequence by threading a sharp pass to Telasco Segovia, who executed a brilliant backheel flick directly into Messi’s path, allowing the captain to beat Portland goalkeeper James Pantemis from 12 yards out.

Just before halftime, Messi turned playmaker to double the lead. Messi danced past two Portland defenders before sending a perfectly weighted, centered pass to forward Germán Berterame, who calmly slotted the ball inside the left post.

The victory brings Messi’s impressive 2026 MLS campaign totals to 12 goals and 6 assists in 13 matches as he continues his red-hot form ahead of the upcoming summer World Cup.