Inter Miami CF has stormed into their first-ever MLS Cup final in spectacular fashion, demolishing New York City FC 5-1 in a commanding semi-final performance at Fort Lauderdale on Saturday. The historic victory was powered by a brilliant Tadeo Allende hat-trick and a moment of pure genius from legendary Argentine Lionel Messi.
Dominant Display Secures Historic Final Berth
The home team established early control with Allende breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute after expertly beating the offside trap. The 26-year-old striker doubled Miami's advantage shortly after with an outstanding headed effort, putting his team firmly in the driver's seat.
New York City FC managed to pull one back through Justin Haak's header in the 37th minute, setting up a tense period where the visitors threatened an equalizer. The momentum shift nearly materialized when Julian Fernandez forced a superb save from Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo in the 66th minute.
Messi's Magical Moment Turns the Tide
Just when New York were pressing hardest for the equalizer, Lionel Messi produced a moment of pure class that effectively decided the contest. The 38-year-old maestro spotted a perfectly weighted pass to Mateo Silvetti, who made no mistake in firing home for Miami's crucial third goal.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, who previously played alongside Messi for both Barcelona and Argentina, reserved special praise for his star player. "Leo has spoiled us with the extraordinary," Mascherano stated. "He is unique, someone we won't see again. Maybe people expected a goal today, but he brought calmness with that third goal. Only he can spot that pass. It basically ended the match."
Ruthless Finish Seals Comprehensive Victory
After Silvetti's goal effectively sealed the result, Miami added further gloss to the scoreline with two late strikes. Telasco Segovia made it 4-1 in the 83rd minute before Tadeo Allende completed his well-deserved hat-trick just a minute later, triggering wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The victory continues Miami's impressive playoff form, having previously smashed FC Cincinnati 4-0 in the previous round. The team now awaits the winner of the San Diego FC versus Vancouver Whitecaps clash to determine their opponent for next weekend's championship decider.
Mascherano credited the entire squad for turning around a season that once appeared in disarray. "The players deserve the praise. They understood the direction we needed to take," he reflected. "We grew stronger together and reached this stage with a real sense of unity. Everyone pulls in the same direction, and who starts doesn't matter. The strength of this group is unshakeable."
