Lionel Messi scored again as Inter Miami "played a practically perfect match" to beat Cincinnati and reach the MLS Eastern Conference final for the first time.

The Argentina forward opened the scoring with a first-half header - his sixth goal in four MLS post-season games.

Messi went on to provide three assists, setting up Mateo Silvetti and, twice, Tadeo Allende in Cincinnati.

Messi's 12 goal contributions in the post-season is an MLS record.

Javier Mascherano's Miami side will face Philadelphia or New York City for a place in the MLS Cup final, against the winners of the Western Conference final.

"I'm proud of how the team played on a very difficult pitch against a very difficult opponent," said Mascherano.

"The players showed incredible character and played a practically perfect match."

He added: "It's an honour and a privilege not only to manage Leo but this group of players.

"We know what Leo is capable of - he proves it every weekend. Today, he did another incredible job off the ball, because we already know what he's capable of with it."

The first half at TQL Stadium was evenly contested, with Miami taking the lead when Messi sprayed a pass to Silvetti - starting ahead of Luis Suarez - and made his way into the box to head home the cross.

Messi returned the favour by releasing 19-year-old Silvetti for Miami's second, and played delightful through balls for Allende's goals.

Miami qualified for the play-offs as the third-placed side in the Eastern Conference, finishing one point behind Philadelphia Union and level with Cincinnati.