Sun Jun 01 02:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi’s two goals and an assist, snapped a four-game winless streak with a 4-2 victory over CF Montreal. The win comes at a good time, as Miami prepares to host the Columbus Crew before participating in the Club World Cup. However, they’ll be facing the Crew with a depleted defense due to injuries to Jordi Alba, Gonzalo Lujan, and Toto Aviles. The Columbus Crew, once leading the Eastern Conference, have struggled recently, enduring a five-match winless streak and facing challenges with their injured starting goalie.

**News Article:**

**Messi Magic Sparks Inter Miami Victory, Crew Clash Looms**

**Miami, FL -** Lionel Messi orchestrated a dominant performance on Wednesday, scoring two goals and providing an assist as Inter Miami defeated CF Montreal 4-2, ending a four-game winless streak. The victory comes at a crucial time for Miami (7-3-5), who are gearing up to host the Columbus Crew (7-2-7) on Saturday before heading to the Club World Cup next month.

“He makes everything look easy,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano of Messi’s performance. “He has accustomed us to that at this stage of his career… That’s the player that we have to follow because he shows us the way to be able to compete in a very good way.”

However, the victory came at a cost. Miami will be without key defenders Jordi Alba (muscle injury), Gonzalo Lujan, and Toto Aviles, all sidelined due to injuries sustained during Wednesday’s game.

Their opponents, the Columbus Crew, are facing struggles of their own. After leading the Eastern Conference earlier this month, a five-match winless streak has dropped them to fourth place. Backup goaltender Nicholas Hagen has been under pressure in the absence of injured starter Patrick Schulte.

“This season, we do a good job defensively,” said Crew coach Wilfried Nancy. “But the last few games, we are a bit average… in terms of key moments.” The Crew have conceded the first goal in four of their last five matches.

The match between Inter Miami and the Columbus Crew promises to be a compelling clash, as Miami looks to continue their resurgence, while the Crew aims to regain their earlier form despite their struggles.

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