Lionel Messi Brace Leads Inter Miami to 3-2 Win Over Colorado Rapids in Denver
Lionel Messi scored twice as Inter Miami defeated Colorado Rapids 3-2 in MLS action in Denver, securing victory with a late goal in front of 75,824 fans.
Jyoti Kushwaha Denver, April 19 — Lionel Messi scored twice, including a decisive late goal, as Inter Miami secured a 3-2 victory over Colorado Rapids in a Major League Soccer match played in Denver on Saturday. The win came in front of a crowd of 75,824 at Empower Field, marking one of the largest attendances in league history.
Messi’s Late Strike Decides Contest
The match was settled in the 79th minute when Messi produced a decisive moment, carrying the ball from just inside midfield into the penalty area before striking into the upper left corner. The goal restored Inter Miami’s lead at 3-2 after Colorado had fought back to level the score earlier in the second half.
Messi’s contribution proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter, with his brace underpinning Inter Miami’s attacking performance. The forward had earlier opened the scoring and was involved in the build-up to the second goal, highlighting his influence across all phases of play.
Inter Miami Build First-Half Advantage
Inter Miami took the lead in the 18th minute following a turnover deep in Colorado territory. Goalkeeper Zack Steffen’s pass was intercepted by Yannick Bright, leading to a challenge by Josh Atencio that resulted in a penalty after video review. Messi converted from the spot, placing his shot centrally to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage.
The visitors extended their lead in first-half stoppage time after a structured attacking sequence. Messi initiated the move with a short pass to Rodrigo De Paul, who released Mateo Silvetti down the flank. Silvetti’s cross into the box was met by German Berterame, who headed the ball under the crossbar to make it 2-0.
Colorado had an opportunity to reduce the deficit earlier when Wayne Frederick attempted a one-touch lob over an out-of-position Dayne St. Clair, but the effort sailed over the target, allowing Inter Miami to maintain control heading into the break.
Colorado Rapids Respond After Interval
The hosts mounted a response in the second half, beginning with Rafael Navarro’s goal in the 58th minute. Navarro advanced from midfield and created space with a step-over before finishing inside the left post to bring Colorado back into the match.
Momentum shifted further in the 62nd minute when substitute Darren Yapi equalised. Receiving a direct pass from Lucas Herrington, Yapi struck a powerful shot past St. Clair to level the score at 2-2, completing a quick turnaround for the Rapids.
The two goals in close succession reflected Colorado’s improved attacking intent after the interval, as they capitalised on space and increased pressure in the final third.
Key Moments and Match Dynamics
Despite Colorado’s comeback, Inter Miami regained control through Messi’s individual effort late in the game. The match also saw disciplinary action impact the closing stages, with Yannick Bright sent off in the 87th minute, leaving Inter Miami to defend their lead with ten players.
Colorado pressed forward in search of another equaliser, but Inter Miami managed the remaining minutes effectively to secure the result. The defensive effort in the final phase ensured that the visitors maintained their advantage despite the numerical disadvantage.
The match featured multiple shifts in momentum, with both teams creating chances and converting key opportunities. Inter Miami’s ability to capitalise on early chances and respond to Colorado’s equaliser ultimately proved decisive.
Standings and Match Context
The victory moves Inter Miami to a record of 4-1-3, taking their points tally to 15 for the season. Colorado Rapids, meanwhile, move to 4-4-0 with 12 points following the defeat.
The fixture attracted significant attention due to its high attendance, with 75,824 spectators present, making it the second-largest crowd recorded in Major League Soccer history. The setting contributed to the intensity of the contest, with both sides delivering a competitive performance.
Inter Miami’s result reflects their ability to secure points in closely contested matches, while Colorado Rapids will look to address defensive lapses that proved costly despite their second-half recovery.
