Messi brilliance propels Inter Miami to MLS Eastern Conference final

Lionel Messi delivered a classic display as Inter Miami advanced towards their inaugural MLS Cup final spot following a convincing 4-0 victory against FC Cincinnati on Sunday.

The Argentine icon netted one goal and set up the remaining three for his teammates, with Tadeo Allende claiming a brace and Mateo Silvetti contributing the additional strike to propel Miami into the Eastern Conference decider scheduled for next Saturday, where they await the outcome of the clash between leading contenders Philadelphia or New York City FC.

Based on Sundays showing, the third placed Miami side enters the upcoming match full of assurance after executing a swift and accurate performance that overwhelmed the second seeded Cincinnati outfit.

A capacity audience exceeding 26,000 filled Cincinnatis TQL Stadium in anticipation of a potential home triumph against Javier Mascheranos talent laden Inter Miami squad.

However, the hosts suffered for not capitalising on early opportunities, as forward Kevin Denkey compelled a solid stop from Miami custodian Rocco Rios Novo around the 15 minute mark.

Miami seized the initiative shortly afterwards, with Messi locating young Argentine prospect Silvetti, who had been selected ahead of experienced Luis Suarez, via a sharp run along the left side.

Silvetti reciprocated effectively by delivering a precise delivery into the penalty area, allowing Messi to head it past the keeper for a 1-0 advantage.

Cincinnati missed an opportunity to equalise in the 22nd minute, as Venezuelan attacker Ender Echenique found room but pulled his effort astray.

From that point, dominance belonged to Miami, and Messi nearly doubled the lead on 27 minutes by moving into position yet slicing his attempt past the upright.

Miamis sharper forward momentum bore fruit on 57 minutes, as Messi spotted Silvetti near the box, from where the Argentina youth international bent the ball into the net to extend the score to 2-0.

With Cincinnati growing frantic in their pursuit, gaps emerged, and under Messis orchestration, it was inevitable that Miami would add to their tally.

Messi slipped a through ball to Allende for the third goal on 62 minutes, before again evading the defence on 74 minutes to assist Allende in completing his pair and making it 4-0.

Miami will discover their Eastern Conference final adversaries later on Sunday, following the Philadelphia versus New York encounter.

The victors of the forthcoming Eastern and Western Conference finals will contest the MLS Cup title match on December 6.