Leo Messi scored and provided an assist for Jordi Alba as Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Seattle Sounders. The win, played on Tuesday, helped Javier Mascherano's side bounce back from two consecutive defeats and reignite their push for the top spot in the MLS.

Inter Miami approached the match against the Sounders eager to make amends after suffering a 3-0 defeat in the Leagues Cup final against the same opponents, as well as a further 3-0 defeat to Charlotte. Mascherano's men responded emphatically.

Despite trailing Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference, Inter Miami still have a chance to clinch the top spot, sitting eight points behind with three games in hand.

Mascherano was without the services of Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, who was serving the second of a three-match suspension imposed by the MLS for allegedly spitting at a member of the Sounders' coaching staff during the Leagues Cup final. 'El Pistolero' will also serve a six-match suspension in the 2026 Leagues Cup.

Consequently, Messi spearheaded a front three, flanked by Tadeo Allende on the right and Jordi Alba, deployed as a makeshift left winger. Mascherano's tactical gamble paid off handsomely. A combination between Messi and Jordi Alba resulted in the opening goal in the 12th minute, scored by the former Spain international.

Messi, who delivered a sublime assist, could have made it 2-0 in the 27th minute, but squandered a one-on-one opportunity, his tame effort being diverted onto the left post.

The Argentinian atoned for his earlier miss in the 40th minute, latching onto a low cross from Jordi Alba to beat the keeper with a left-footed strike. It was Messi's 20th goal of the season in the MLS.

After the restart, Inter Miami sealed the victory with a powerful header from Ian Fray and had chances to further extend their lead. Messi came close to scoring a fourth, but was denied by Frei in a one-on-one situation. The Sounders, with no hope of a comeback, scored a consolation goal through Mexican midfielder Obed Vargas. Inter Miami still have three games in hand and have set their sights on claiming top spot from the Union.

Obed Vargas

Achievements