Lionel Messi scored twice as Inter Miami came from behind to beat Cincinnati 5-3.
He was denied a hat-trick when a late third goal was credited to opposing goalkeeper Roman Celentano after a rebound off the post hit him before crossing the line.
Messi opened the scoring midway through the first half when Matt Miazga’s clearance struck him and rebounded into the net.
Kevin Denkey equalized for the hosts from the penalty spot four minutes before half-time after he had been fouled.
They were ahead four minutes after the break when Pavel Bucha arrived unopposed at the far post, only for Messi to equalize six minutes later as he rounded off a crisp passing move.
Evander restored Cincinnati’s advantage with a shot from outside the box just after the hour, but substitute Mateo Silvetti cut in from the left to level again with 11 minutes remaining.
German Berterame cashed in on a collision between a defender and Celentano to turn in a loose ball and put Miami ahead with six minutes remaining.
And there was still time for Miami to grab a fifth, Messi steering Silvetti’s cross onto the post with the rebound crossing the line via the prone Celentano.
The win leaves Miami in second in the MLS Eastern Conference, two points behind leaders Nashville.
