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**Messi Magic Fuels Inter Miami’s Supporters’ Shield Chase with Victory Over D.C. United**

**FORT LAUDERDALE, FL** – Lionel Messi orchestrated a dominant performance for Inter Miami on Saturday, contributing to all three goals in a 3-1 victory over D.C. United. The win keeps Miami firmly in the hunt for the MLS Supporters’ Shield.

Messi’s brilliance began in the 35th minute when he delivered a pinpoint pass to Tadeo Allende, who slotted home the opening goal. After Christian Benteke leveled the score for D.C. United early in the second half, Messi took center stage.

In the 66th minute, the Argentine maestro received a pass from former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba, controlled the ball perfectly, and fired a shot into the far corner of the net. Messi then sealed the victory with a stunning strike from just outside the penalty box, curling the ball into the top corner.

Despite being awarded a penalty in the 72nd minute, Messi deferred to his young compatriot Mateo Silvetti, whose attempt unfortunately hit the crossbar. Jacob Murrell scored a late consolation goal for D.C. United, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Messi’s heroics.

“It’s a very important victory because in the end this week we won the six points that we had to win here at home,” said Miami coach Javier Mascherano. “We have climbed positions in the standings.”

Messi’s two goals propelled him to the top of the MLS scoring charts with 22 goals, surpassing Nashville’s Sam Surridge. He also boasts 12 assists in 22 MLS games this season.

Mascherano praised Messi’s impact, stating, “As for Leo, another normal night from him, which is totally abnormal for any football player. His ability to become a force to play, to find situations where he could carry the team on his shoulders when we needed it most… it’s the advantage of having him.”

Inter Miami now sits eight points behind Supporters’ Shield leaders Philadelphia Union, with three games in hand.

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