MIAMI: Tadeo Allende delivered a sensational hat-trick to reach eight goals in the MLS Cup Playoffs, tying the league’s single-postseason record, as Inter Miami cruised past New York City FC 5-1 in the Eastern Conference Final in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday night.
Lionel Messi continued his remarkable postseason form with his seventh assist, while Jordi Alba orchestrated play brilliantly with three assists of his own. The East No. 3 seed Herons have now outscored their opponents 13-1 over their last three playoff matches, surging into their first-ever MLS Cup final.
Miami’s dominance extended into the second half through goals from Telasco Segovia and Mateo Silvetti, sealing a commanding victory. Justin Haak pulled one back late in the first half for fifth-seeded NYCFC, whose bid for a third straight road playoff win came to an end after earlier triumphs over Philadelphia and Charlotte.
The Herons will host the Vancouver Whitecaps—3-1 winners over San Diego FC in the Western Conference final—on December 6. Both clubs will battle for their first MLS Cup, with Miami holding a slight regular-season edge after finishing on 65 points to Vancouver’s 63.
Messi, who entered the match already holding the MLS record for most combined goals and assists in a single postseason, added to his tally in another commanding team performance.
