Inter Miami CF vs New York Red BullsInter Miami CFNew York Red BullsLionel MessiMajor League SoccerMatias Rojas

Lionel Messi notched a hat-trick of assists while scoring once in a dominant second half for Inter Miami.

Miami taking on RBNY
Messi scores and assists within 3-minute span
Herons come back from goal deficit

WHAT HAPPENED?

Matias Rojas was subbed on at halftime for David Ruiz, and made an impact immediately. The Paraguay international notched goals in the 49th and 62nd minute – both assisted by Messi, as he announced his presence at Chase Field.

The Argentine bagged a goal himself in the 52nd minute, and then assisted a third to Luis Suarez in the 69th minute to make it four unanswered in the second half in a dominant performance.

WATCH THE CLIP

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The Herons had a bleak first 45 minutes, where they were outclassed on all ends of the pitch. It was a dominant pressing performance from the Red Bulls, who opened the scoring 30 minutes into the match from Dante Vanzeir.

Messi’s quick heroics, though, put them in pole position to close out the match.

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WHAT NEXT FOR INTER MIAMI?

The Herons take on CF MTL next weekend in MLS action. The Eastern Conference clubs will clash for the first time this season as the Herons look to stay hot.