Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez both scored twice each to propel Inter Miami to a 4-0 victory over D.C. United.

Miami went into Saturday's contest at Nu Stadium without a win in five MLS games.

But their streak ended in style as Messi, fresh from his final appearance for Argentina, and Suarez did the damage.

Just three minutes had passed when Suarez opened the scoring with a delicate, lofted finish.

Messi played his part in Miami's second goal in the 39th minute, with his shot parried out by D.C. goalkeeper Sean Johnson. German Berterame got onto the rebound and cushioned a header back for Suarez to double up.

Determined not to be outdone, Messi got in on the act two minutes after half-time, with Suarez crossing it in for the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner to nudge home.

Messi then hit the post, but the 39-year-old doubled his tally soon after as he finished at the end of a trademark, mazy run into the area.

A hat-trick goal just evaded Messi when he fired wide late on, as Miami consolidated their place in second in the Eastern Conference.

Superstar strikers get Miami back on track

It has been a tough start for Miami coach Cristian Gonzalez, and the Herons needed a win in this fashion to really get themselves back on course ahead of the regular season run-in, and the playoffs.

They had their superstar attackers to thank, with Messi and Suarez delivering in the key moments.

Messi is now on 23 goals, four clear of any other rivals for MLS' Golden Boot, and a third successive MVP award is in the offing.

He has been directly involved in at least one goal in 11 straight matches in all competitions for Miami (12 goals, five assists).

This is after Messi went five straight league matches without a win for the first time in his career.

Suarez, meanwhile, is now on 24 MLS goal involvements for the season (15 goals, nine assists).

"Luis is one of the most important players on the squad," said Gonzalez. "He's totally committed, not only to us but to the club.

"Anybody who didn't understand before should understand now that he's a fundamental player for this team."