Inter Miami vs Toronto FC 2025: Magic Messi once again to the rescue
The tie keeps Inter Miami (4-0-2) in strong contention in the Eastern Conference, trailing leaders Columbus Crew by just one point with a game in hand. Messi’s stunning left-footed volley from the top of the 18-yard box in first-half stoppage time canceled out Federico Bernardeschi’s opener for Toronto FC (0-4-3). Here’s an in-depth look at the match, Messi’s impact, and what’s next for both teams in the Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 narrative.
Inter Miami vs Toronto FC 2025: Argentine Star Scores in 1-1 Tie with Toronto FC
The Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 storyline took center stage as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner delivered yet another defining moment. Toronto FC stunned the home crowd in the 42nd minute when Bernardeschi exploited a defensive error to fire past Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender. It was only the second time this season Toronto had taken the lead, the first being a fleeting 19-minute spell against Chicago Fire in March.
Messi, however, had other plans. Earlier in the half, he thought he’d scored, only for the goal to be disallowed due to a foul. Undeterred, he struck in the 45+5 minute with a trademark volley, curling the ball into the bottom corner to level the score. The equalizer preserved Inter Miami’s unbeaten home record in the 2025 MLS season and extended their overall record to 8-1-2 across all competitions, including four wins in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. For Toronto, the draw offered little relief, as their winless streak stretched to seven matches.
Messi’s Milestone: 40 Goals and Counting
Messi’s goal against Toronto marked his 40th for Inter Miami since his blockbuster arrival in 2023. This tally spans 28 MLS goals, 8 in the Leagues Cup, and 4 in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. In the 2025 MLS season alone, he’s contributed at least one point (goal or assist) in all four matches he’s played, underscoring his enduring excellence. The Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 saga continues to captivate fans, with each strike adding to his legacy.
At 37—turning 38 in June 2025—Messi defies age with his relentless drive and precision. His disallowed goal earlier in the match showcased his hunger, while the eventual equalizer highlighted his ability to seize critical moments. Inter Miami’s reliance on his magic is evident, making him the cornerstone of their 2025 ambitions.
Tactical Breakdown: Inter Miami’s Strategy
Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino opted for a 4-3-3 formation, positioning Messi as a false nine alongside Luis Suárez and Diego Gómez. Toronto FC, under John Herdman, countered with a compact 5-4-1 setup to stifle Miami’s attack. Bernardeschi’s goal came against the run of play, but Inter Miami’s 62% possession dominance eventually told.
Messi’s fluidity was key—dropping deep to orchestrate play and drifting wide to stretch Toronto’s defense. His evolving partnership with Suárez, who anchored the attack, created opportunities, though Toronto’s disciplined shape limited clear chances. Ultimately, Messi’s individual brilliance broke the deadlock, reinforcing the Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 narrative as one of genius overcoming adversity.
Eastern Conference Standings Update
The draw leaves Inter Miami with 14 points from six matches, one point shy of Columbus Crew (15 points) but with a game in hand. A victory in their next MLS outing against Chicago Fire on April 13, 2025, could see them claim the top spot. Toronto FC, meanwhile, remain rooted to the bottom of the East with three points from seven games, their winless run a growing concern.
Upcoming Fixtures: What’s Next?
Inter Miami’s immediate focus shifts to the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where they host LAFC in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, Miami needs a comeback at Chase Stadium, with Messi’s availability likely decisive. Their MLS campaign resumes the following Sunday, April 13, against Chicago Fire.
Toronto FC returns home to face Minnesota United on Saturday, April 12, desperate for their first win of 2025. With 12 goals conceded in seven matches, Herdman’s side must shore up defensively to turn their season around.
Fan Buzz: Social Media Lights Up
Messi’s performance sparked a frenzy online. “Messi turns back the clock again!” one fan posted on Twitter. Another wrote, “Toronto had hope for three minutes, then Messi happened.” The Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 journey continues to resonate, with his every touch fueling excitement across the globe.
Messi’s Transformative Impact on Inter Miami
Since joining in 2023, Messi has revolutionized Inter Miami. His arrival sparked their 2023 Leagues Cup triumph and catapulted the club’s global profile. In 2025, his leadership drives their MLS Cup pursuit, with the team unbeaten in matches he’s played. The Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 era blends artistry with results, cementing his status as a game-changer.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s stoppage-time equalizer against Toronto FC was a testament to his timeless talent, rescuing a point for Inter Miami in a tightly contested MLS clash. His 40th goal for the club reinforces his indispensability as Miami chases Eastern Conference supremacy and CONCACAF glory. With a crucial week ahead—facing LAFC midweek and Chicago Fire next Sunday—the Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025 story is far from over. For Toronto, the draw offers a glimmer of hope, but their winless streak looms large. As Messi continues to dazzle, fans worldwide remain hooked on his every move.
Try and disallow this one…
Lionel Messi does it AGAIN. pic.twitter.com/wzVCyB7oQn
— george (@StokeyyG2) April 7, 2025
FAQs: Lionel Messi Inter Miami MLS 2025
- How many goals has Messi scored for Inter Miami?
As of April 2025, Messi has 40 goals across all competitions since 2023. - What was the result of Inter Miami vs Toronto FC?
The match ended 1-1, with Messi scoring for Miami and Bernardeschi for Toronto. - Where does Inter Miami stand in the MLS?
They’re second in the Eastern Conference with 14 points, one behind Columbus Crew. - What’s Inter Miami’s next match?
They face LAFC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on April 9, followed by Chicago Fire in MLS on April 13. - How is Messi performing in MLS 2025?
He’s scored three goals in four matches, contributing points in every appearance.
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