Watch: Messi hits 1,300 goal contributions as Miami beat Cincinnati in MLS Eastern Conference semis

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New Delhi: Lionel Messi has spent most of his career rewriting the sport’s record books and he did it again as he delivered one of his most complete performances in an Inter Miami shirt. The Argentine star guided his side to a 4-0 triumph over FC Cincinnati and helped them seal a place in the Eastern Conference final. The night carried extra weight as he also achieved an unprecedented milestone of 1.300 goal contributions.

Miami had gone three matches without scoring against Cincinnati but the tone shifted the moment the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner found his rhythm. His movement, sharp touches and awareness lifted the whole side and the breakthrough came in the 19th minute. Mateo Silvetti floated a clever cross into the box and Messi met it with a firm header to open the scoring. From there, Miami never looked back.

The former Barcelona star didn’t stop with one goal. Once the lead was secured, he began to pick Cincinnati apart with passes that split lines and dragged the defenders in every direction. What followed after that was a masterclass in decision-making and tempo control from a player who has been doing it for two decades.

Messi led with three assists with his creativity. Twice, he found Tadeo Allende in the perfect position and twice he laid the ball on a plate for him. Allende finished both chances with confidence, pushing Miami into a commanding position. Silvetti then added his name to the scoresheet after yet another assist from Messi, putting the result beyond doubt.

By the end of the night, Messi had been involved in all four goals. The tally pushed him level with Ferenc Puskas for the most assists in football history. More importantly, it took him to 896 goals and 404 assists across his career, which combine to 1,300 contributions that no player in the sport has ever reached.

Where Ronaldo stands in the race?

The comparison between Messi and Ronaldo is undeniable, as both stars have defined the sport in recent times. The Portuguese forward also had a spectacular day as he scored a bicycle kick for Al Nassr in their 4-1 triumph. The Portuguese star sits at a tally of 1,213 goal contributions with 954 goals and 259 assists. He is just 87 goals shy of Messi’s record as he is still chasing his own landmark of 1,000 goals.

Miami one step from history

After the match, Messi celebrated with a message to fans, praising the team’s performance and the importance of the win. Miami now awaits either Philadelphia Union or New York City FC in the Eastern Conference final, as his team is just one win away from their first MLS Cup trophy.