The 38-year-old Argentine icon scored twice and set up two more at DRV PNK Stadium, producing a vintage display that reminded the league and the world of his enduring brilliance.

Messi opened the scoring in the 10th minute, latching onto a loose ball inside the box and curling a left-footed shot into the far corner. He doubled Miami’s lead just before the interval with a stunning strike from distance after combining neatly with teenage teammate Mateo Silvetti.

In the second half, Messi turned provider. His clever build-up play set up Tadeo Allende to finish from close range in the 73rd minute, before supplying a perfectly weighted long pass that Allende delicately chipped over the goalkeeper to complete the rout three minutes later.

The two assists lifted Messi to a remarkable career total of 400 assists, adding to his already unmatched record for creative contributions in world football. The performance also secured Miami a 2-1 victory in their best-of-three first-round series, booking a conference semifinal clash with FC Cincinnati, who edged Columbus 2-1 earlier in the day.

Miami’s win was even more impressive given the absence of striker Luis Suárez, suspended after a red card in the previous leg. But Messi’s all-round performance ensured his side cruised through, avoiding a third consecutive early playoff exit.

Elsewhere, Minnesota United advanced after a dramatic 7-6 penalty shootout victory over Seattle following a 3-3 draw, setting up a meeting with the winner of Sunday’s Portland vs San Diego match.

For Miami, however, all focus remains on their captain. Messi’s display two goals, two assists, and a record milestone reaffirmed that even at 38, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains football’s ultimate difference-maker.