Lionel Messi helps Inter Miami overcome LAFC as they chase an MLS Eastern conference playoff spot

In front of a star studded crowd at BMO Stadium that included Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Inter Miami put on another Hollywood performance dismantling Los Angeles FC 3-1 on Sunday night. Facundo Farias scored his first Inter Miami goal and Lionel Messi assisted on two goals in the second half as Inter Miami’s counter attack was too much for the Black and Gold. LAFC had their chances but between Drake Callender coming up with huge saves and bad decision-making by Denis Bouanga on breakaways, Steve Cherundolo’s team wasn’t able to put it all together when it mattered most.

Jordi Alba scored his first MLS goal in a well-crafted move started by Sergio Busquets and assisted by Messi. Callender was on his way to a shutout before LAFC were able to get a late consolation goal from Ryan Hollinghead. Regardless, it’s a massive victory for the Herons as they now move within nine points of a playoff position with only nine matches remaining in the season. Next up will be Sporting Kansas City on Saturday, Sept. 9.