Fort Lauderdale, 4 May (H.S.): Lionel Messi scored as Inter Miami overcame their recent struggles, defeating the New York Red Bulls 4-1 at Chase Stadium on Saturday. Following a disheartening exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where they suffered a 5-1 aggregate defeat to the Vancouver Whitecaps, Miami was eager for a win in Major League Soccer.

Fafa Picault opened the scoring in the ninth minute, converting a flick from Luis Suarez after a Marcelo Weigandt cross. Weigandt then doubled the lead in the 30th minute, following up on his own header that was saved, with the goal initially ruled offside before VAR confirmed its legitimacy.

Suarez added a third in the 39th minute, capitalizing on a blocked shot, although the Red Bulls responded with a goal just before half-time via an Omar Valencia corner. However, Miami secured their dominance, with Messi scoring in the 67th minute after a smart interplay with Telasco Segovia. This marked the end of Messi’s four-game dry spell.

The victory propelled Miami to fourth in the Eastern Conference standings. In other MLS action, Columbus Crew triumphed 4-2 over Charlotte, with Dylan Chambost netting his first goal, while Philadelphia Union and D.C. United also claimed wins.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar