Messi shines with a hat-trick in Inter Miami's rout

The star of the match

Lionel Messi was the standout performer at Nu Stadium. With a hat-trick and one assist, the Argentine took the match ball home after a 7-1 victory for Inter Miami. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, earning a perfect rating of 10, with five key passes and one successful dribble.

Messi opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, then continued his goal spree with strikes in the 83rd and 90+6. Every time he touched the ball, the crowd rose, knowing something special was about to happen.

An offensive display

The match clearly reflected the difference in table positions: Inter Miami, second, against a CF Montreal struggling to escape the lower end. The first half ended 2-1, but it was in the second half that Inter Miami unleashed their offensive potential, scoring five unanswered goals.

With a total of 20 shots, 11 of which were on target, Inter Miami showcased remarkable efficiency: 7 goals from an xG of 2.87, demonstrating they were more than effective with their chances. Montreal's defense appeared fragile, unable to contain the local team's momentum.

A record in the history

This 7-1 marks the largest margin of victory in the 10 recorded clashes between the two teams, surpassing the previous record of three goals. Inter Miami's superiority was evident, and the result clearly indicates they are in the playoff race with 39 points, while Montreal remains at the bottom with 21.

With this result, Inter Miami reinforces their promotion position, while CF Montreal will need to rethink their strategy if they wish to escape the bottom.