Inter Miami defeated Atlanta United with an impressive 4-0 scoreline, thanks to a standout performance from Lionel Messi. This game also marked a new MLS record and further solidified his legacy in the league.
With this match, Messi set a record as the first player in MLS history to have nine games with multiple goals in a single season. He scored two goals in each of these outings, with five of them occurring consecutively.
Other players who have had multiple-goal matches include MLS greats like former LA Galaxy star Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who had eight in 2019, Stern John with Columbus Crew in 1998, and Mamadou Diallo with Tampa Bay in 2000.
Messi tallied 26 goals in 27 league games and provided 18 assists, resulting in a total of 44 goal contributions—nearly double the number of matches he played. His performance at this stage in his career is notable as he prepares for the World Cup.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF.
Why Messi was able to play with Inter Miami
Messi’s participation against Atlanta was in doubt after he was named to Argentina’s squad. He did not play in the friendly against Venezuela at Hard Rock Stadium and remained in Florida after Argentina’s match against Puerto Rico was moved from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale, allowing him to join his club.
Inter Miami’s manager Javier Mascherano mentioned the process of securing Messi’s release: “Before the match, I spoke to Scaloni, and he said he wouldn’t use him, that Leo would sit out. I talked with Leo to see if he could play. Ultimately, it was his choice, and he recognized the opportunity since he wasn’t going to play against Venezuela.”
“He is a unique player, an icon, and even without training with us last week, he proved his value. He contributed to our win and scored, which was significant for him,” Mascherano added. Messi’s impact was essential, elevating the team’s performance against Atlanta.