Lionel Messi made it eight goals in five games for Inter Miami as they eased into the semi-finals of the Leagues Cup with a 4-0 win over Charlotte FC on Friday. The Argentine slotted in Miami's fourth goal in the 86th minute of what was a relatively routine victory for Gerardo Martino's team. Miami will travel north to face the Philadelphia Union for Tuesday's semi-final after they beat Mexican team Queretaro 2-1.

Watched by Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni, Messi had one of his quietest games in Miami's pink jersey but was still able to find the target for his legions of fans and help secure a fifth straight win since his arrival.

Miami took the lead in the 12th minute through a Josef Martinez penalty and doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute through in-form Robert Taylor who clipped home a low cross from Yedlin. 

After Sunday's helter-skelter game in Dallas ended 4-4, with Miami progressing after penalties, Martino was pleased to see his team keep control of the contest.

"We kept control of the ball for longer spells and I think there was only one clear chance from the opponent. Other than that I think we didn't suffer defensively," said the former Barcelona and Argentina coach.

"It's very difficult for us not to score goals that's why we talk a lot about keeping a clean-sheet because that's almost a guarantee of being able to win the game," he said.