Lionel Messi continued his prolific season for Inter Miami as they beat Philadelphia Union 4-1 to advance to the League Cup final.

Messi, who has been on target in all five games for the club since his arrival in June, was again on the scoresheet after 20 minutes.

The World Cup winner cannoned a shot from approximately 25 yards out to beat a diving Andre Blake and record his ninth goal in six appearances this season.

Messi’s wonder strike doubled Miami’s lead after Josef Martinez opened the scoring for the club in minute three.

Blake was again forced to retrieve the ball from his net before the half ended, following a brilliant solo run at goal by former Barcelona player Jordi Alba in extra time to make it 3-0 going to the break.

After Alejandro Bedoya pulled a goal back for the Union in the 73rd minute, David Ruiz restored their 3-goal advantage in the 84th minute to end the game as a contest.

Messi had the opportunity to add to his tally before the final whistle, but resolute defending in the closing minutes preserved the scoreline.

With nine goals to his credit, Messi moves to third all-time on the club’s top scorers list.

His tally is expected to improve when Inter tackles Nashville SC in the Cup final on Saturday.