Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar, led Inter Miami to an exciting comeback victory with a masterclass performance.
Messi came off the bench in the second half to score an incredible hat-trick and assist on another goal, inspiring his team to overcome a two-goal deficit and lead the Herons to a record-breaking victory.
According to ESPN, Messi’s final three goals sealed the 6-2 victory, solidifying his place in MLS history and making him Inter Miami’s all-time best scorer with 33 goals, surpassing Leo Campana.
According to CBS Sports, the victory was even more noteworthy because Miami broke the previous record of 73 points set by the New England Revolution in 2021—appropriately accomplished by defeating them—and set a new MLS points record for a single season with 74.
Messi’s influence went beyond his ability to score goals. He is the league’s leading supplier with 16 assists, demonstrating his versatility.
Messi in race for golden boot.
In the 78th minute, the Argentine scored his first goal in typical Messi form with a perfect left-footed effort.
Three minutes later, he added a second goal, and in stoppage time, he finished off a spectacular team move to complete his hat-trick.
Messi narrowly trailed his competitor with 112 goals for his country after scoring a hat-trick and dishing up two assists during Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
Messi and Suárez each scored 20 goals, placing them second in the Golden Boot race behind Christian Benteke of D.C. United, who scored 23 goals.
However, with a total of 36 goals and assists in just 19 games, Messi leads the league in goal contributions.
“Our captain has led us, the players have led us in times where it was difficult,” Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham said. “But now, tonight, we celebrate. Tomorrow, we prepare for Friday and the playoffs.
