After a great collective play, Lionel Messi scored the opening goal for Inter Miami in the MLS game against the Portland Timbers. Inter Miami are hosting the Portland Timbers on Sunday at Nu Stadium as they look to climb the MLS Eastern Conference standings. Lionel Messi provided the game’s opening breakthrough for the home side, finishing off a brilliant sequence of team passing.
After sustained attacking pressure that turned Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis into the player of the match early with multiple saves, the Herons finally carved open the defense through the middle of the pitch.
Messi controlled a pass from Telasco Segovia and quickly found Luis Suarez, who immediately linked back up with the Venezuelan midfielder. Segovia then delivered a spectacular backheel pass that left Messi one-on-one with the keeper, allowing the Argentine star to slot it home and open the scoring for the hosts.
Messi makes no mistake for his 12th goal of the year. 💫@InterMiamiCF lead 1-0 at home. pic.twitter.com/QqiFVtiTgS— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 17, 2026
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