In a stunning display of his unparalleled soccer prowess, Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a resounding 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution on Saturday night. The Argentine superstar’s 11-minute hat-trick in the second half helped Inter Miami break the MLS points record, finishing the season with an impressive 74 points.
Messi’s Instant Impact
Since joining Inter Miami midway through the 2023 season, Messi has been nothing short of sensational. His presence alone has been a huge victory for Major League Soccer, attracting global attention to the league. Despite missing half the season, Messi has made an indelible mark, finishing the regular season with an astonishing 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches.
A Record-Breaking Night
Saturday’s match against the New England Revolution was a historic night for Inter Miami. The team set a new MLS record with a .765 winning percentage, surpassing the previous best of .750 held by four teams. Inter Miami also became only the eighth team in MLS history to finish a regular season with just four losses.
Lionel Messi has missed half the MLS season. Should he be MVP?
MLS pundits are asking
Suarez and Messi: A Lethal Duo
While Messi stole the show in the second half, it was his former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez who got Inter Miami back into the game. Suarez scored twice in quick succession in the first half, erasing an early 2-0 deficit. The Uruguayan striker finished his debut MLS season with an impressive 20 goals.
A Brief Injury Scare
There was a moment of concern in the 74th minute when Messi was fouled and appeared to be in pain, clutching his right ankle. The Argentine star has already missed 15 of Inter Miami’s MLS matches this year due to international commitments and a severe ankle injury suffered during the Copa America in July. Fortunately, the incident proved to be just a scare, and Messi went on to complete his hat-trick.
Looking Ahead: MLS Playoffs and Club World Cup
With the regular season now complete, Inter Miami’s focus shifts to the MLS Cup playoffs. The team will host their first-ever home playoff match on Friday night, riding a wave of momentum thanks to Messi’s arrival and their record-breaking season.
In addition to their playoff ambitions, Inter Miami have also been awarded a spot in the 2025 Club World Cup. FIFA President Gianni Infantino made the announcement on Saturday night, acknowledging Messi’s global popularity and the tournament’s plans to hold matches in South Florida.
I am proud to announce that as one of the best clubs in the world, you are deserved participants in the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as the host club representing the United States.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino to Inter Miami
The 2025 Club World Cup promises to be a star-studded affair, with top clubs from around the world set to compete. As the host club representing the United States, Inter Miami will have the honor of playing in the tournament opener on June 15, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
With Lionel Messi leading the charge, Inter Miami have already made history in Major League Soccer. As they embark on their playoff journey and look ahead to the 2025 Club World Cup, the future looks brighter than ever for the ambitious club from South Florida.
