Lionel Messi shines in 2-0 win, Inter Miami continue on the right path under Kily Gonzalez and clinch MLS Playoffs spot

For the third straight season, Inter Miami are heading to the MLS Playoffs . With five matches still left on their schedule, all that's left for Miami to play for during this regular season is seeding. As of right now, Miami are in second place in the Eastern Conference , with a three point lead over the New England Revolution and four point lead over the Chicago Fire .

Miami clinched their playoff berth with a 2-0 win on Wednesday night over NYCFC . While Lionel Messi didn't get on the scoresheet this time around, the Argentinian superstar did hand out an assist to compatriot Rodrigo De Paul for Inter's second goal.

Inter Miami qualifies for MLS Playoffs, currently 2nd place in Eastern Conference

German Berterame got the scoring started in the 20th minute, a crucial goal for both the team and the striker himself. The snake bitten Berterame simply couldn't find the back of the net nearly all season, with his last goal coming on May 24 . His hard work finally paid off, as he was rewarded in front of net by a Luis Suarez assist.

In the final seconds of the first half, De Paul extended Miami's lead. Messi set up his favorite Argentina national team teammate at the top of the box. De Paul rifled a powerful shot past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0 .

Miami ended up seeing the game out relatively comfortably. Dayne St. Clair saved a penalty kick in the final moment of the match, which should boost his confidence going forward.

This was manager Kily Gonzalez 's fifth match with Inter Miami. He started his campaign with a Campeones Cup victory, then a draw and loss in MLS play. But over the past two games, Miami hasn't conceded a goal while scoring six . They seem to be finding their form at the perfect moment.