Inter Miami thrash FC Cincinnati 4-0 to reach first Eastern Conference final

Inter Miami booked their maiden Eastern Conference final spot with a commanding 4-0 win over FC Cincinnati on Sunday, powered by Lionel Messi and a trio of Argentine scorers representing three generations.

Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a trademark header from a cross by 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti. In the second half, Messi provided three assists as Silvetti doubled the lead with a composed finish.

The spotlight then turned to 26-year-old Tadeo Allende, who struck twice in quick succession, both set up by Messi’s sublime through-balls, completing a dominant victory for Javier Mascherano’s side. Allende’s pace and power troubled the Cincinnati defence, while goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo made crucial early saves to keep the hosts at bay.

Miami continued to press late, though Rodrigo De Paul missed a clear chance from another Messi pass.

Messi, who scored 29 goals and provided 19 assists in the regular MLS season, now has six goals and six assists in the playoffs, setting a new MLS playoff record with 12 goal contributions.

Inter Miami finished the regular season in third place and will host fifth-seeded New York City FC in Saturday’s Eastern Conference final. NYCFC advanced with a 1-0 win over Supporters’ Shield winners Philadelphia Union.