Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and provided an assist as Inter Miami defeated FC Cincinnati 5-3 in an entertaining MLS clash on Wednesday night.
The three goals took Messi’s career tally to 910.
Inter Miami took the lead in the 24th minute through Messi, but FC Cincinnati equalised in the 35th minute after Kevin Denkey converted from the penalty spot.
The home side went ahead early in the second half through Pavel Bucha in the 49th minute before Messi scored again six minutes later to make it 2-2.
Evander restored Cincinnati’s lead in the 74th minute to put the hosts back in front at 3-2.
Inter Miami responded late in the game as Messi set up Mateo Silvetti for the equaliser in the 79th minute before German Berterame scored in the 84th minute to give the visitors the lead.
Messi then completed his hat-trick in the 89th minute to seal the victory for Inter Miami.
The Argentine forward was directly involved in four of Inter Miami’s five goals on the night.
The hat-trick was also the 62nd of Messi’s professional career and his third in Major League Soccer.
Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano described Messi’s display as “World Cup form” after the match.