Lionel Messi continues to rewrite the history books in Major League Soccer. Despite pre-match doubts over his availability, the Argentine superstar featured for Inter Miami against Atlanta United and delivered yet another masterclass at Chase Stadium.
Messi was determined to be on the pitch for Jordi Alba’s farewell appearance, and he made the night even more special by scoring two goals, marking his ninth multi-goal game of the season — a new MLS record.
With that achievement, Messi surpasses the previous joint record held by:
John Stern – Columbus Crew (1998)
Mamadou Diallo – Tampa Bay (2000)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – LA Galaxy (2019)
A Night of Brilliance in Miami
Messi, who stayed back from Argentina’s friendly against Venezuela, took full control of the match from kickoff. He scored twice and created multiple chances as Inter Miami comfortably defeated Atlanta in front of a packed home crowd — including several of his national teammates watching from the stands.
Golden Boot in Sight
Messi’s brace also pushed him two goals ahead of Denis Bouanga in the MLS Golden Boot race. While LAFC still have two games left, Bouanga will miss one due to international duty with Gabon, giving Messi a clear advantage going into the final weekend.
Inter Miami will finish their regular season away to Nashville
LAFC travel to face Colorado Rapids
Bouanga needs at least a brace to catch Messi — assuming the Argentine doesn’t score again
