Lionel Messi reacts after scoring game-winning brace for Inter Miami in MLS victory over Nashville SC

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was at his mercurial best once again as the Herons eased to a 3-1 victory at Chase Stadium. They did fall behind inside two minutes, as Franco Negri put through his own net, but it was the Messi show after that.

The Argentine superstar restored parity with 11 minutes on the clock, before teeing up fellow Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets to put the home side in front before half-time. Messi then grabbed his second of the game from the penalty spot with nine minutes remaining.

It was not all good news for Inter Miami, as they saw Diego Gomez added to an ever-growing injury list, but their talismanic No.10 is firing on all cylinders after overcoming fitness concerns of his own. Messi has posted a defiant “Vamos” message on social media after helping to pick up three precious points.

More Messi magic has kept Inter Miami at the top of the MLS Eastern Conference. Having suffered Champions Cup heartache at the hands of Monterrey, the David Beckham co-owned outfit are determined to get their hands on more major silverware in 2024.