Messi's Heroics Propel Inter Miami to Victory

Lionel Messi delivered a standout performance in Inter Miami's 3-2 triumph over D.C. United, providing a crucial first-half assist and netting two second-half goals to claim the league's top scorer position.

Assists from Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets facilitated Messi's pivotal goals, which included the decisive and an insurance goal in the 66th and 85th minutes respectively. Messi now has 22 goals this season, surpassing Nashville SC's Sam Surridge in the Golden Boot race.

Inter Miami, holding fifth place in the Eastern Conference, is set to challenge New York City FC at Citi Field, trailing just one point with two matches in hand. Meanwhile, DC United will face Philadelphia Union at home this Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies.)