Lionel Messi led the charge for Inter Miami CF , scoring twice in the second half to extend his tally to five goals in the last nine days, securing a 4-0 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday night at Citi Field and a spot in the 2025 Major League Soccer playoffs.

Miami head coach Javier Mascherano emphasized that the team had accomplished an important goal, but it was only the first step for a club with aspirations to repeat as Supporters' Shield champions.

"We are happy and with the tranquility of having achieved the first goal, which was to qualify for the playoffs. Now we'll try to finish as high as possible in the standings, which would allow us to have home-field advantage," Mascherano said.

Messi had the opportunity to record a hat-trick when Inter Miami earned a penalt

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