Lionel Messi put on a dazzling display Saturday night, scoring twice and providing an assist to lead Inter Miami to a commanding 5-1 victory over Columbus Crew at Chase Stadium.
The World Cup winner wasted no time making his mark, setting up Tadeo Allende for the opener in the 13th minute before punishing a defensive slip just two minutes later with a clinical finish.
Columbus, without their regular goalkeeper Patrick Schulte, struggled under pressure. Replacement Nicholas Hagen handed Messi his second goal of the night in the 27th minute, as the Argentine delivered a classy chip to extend the lead to 3-0.
Luis Suárez got in on the act after halftime, converting from close range after sustained attacking play from the hosts. Fafa Picault added a fifth to complete the rout.
Though Cesar Ruvalcaba pulled one back for Columbus in the second half, it was a mere consolation in a match thoroughly dominated by Inter Miami and their talismanic captain.
