Messi Leads Miami Comeback Win

WASHINGTON, May 14 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- Lionel Messi scored a brace as Inter Miami twice recovered from a goal down to secure a 5-3 win at Cincinnati in their MLS clash on Wednesday, Xinhua reported.

Messi put the visitors ahead with a 24th-minute strike, but goals either side of halftime from Kevin Denkey and Pavel Bucha gave Cincinnati the lead.

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi restored parity just before the hour with a composed finish after Rodrigo De Paul's cross.

The hosts regained the advantage through Brazilian midfielder Evander, who found space outside the area before thumping a long-range effort into the top-left corner.

But Miami was back on level terms in the 79th minute when substitute Mateo Silvetti surged into the box and angled a shot into the far corner, finishing a move that began with Messi.

The Florida side then took the lead after goalkeeper Roman Celentano spilt Messi's free-kick, allowing German Berterame to fire in the rebound.

Celentano's night went from bad to worse as he inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to keep out Messi's lunging attempt.

The result leaves Inter Miami second in the Eastern Conference with 25 points from 13 games, two behind leader Nashville, with Cincinnati nine points further back. 

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA