Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to a Historic MLS Record
Lionel Messi continues to make history with Inter Miami. In his first full season in Major League Soccer (MLS), the Argentine star has been instrumental in helping his team break the all-time points record in a season, setting the new mark at 74 points. With this achievement, the “Herons” surpassed the previous record of 73 points set by the New England Revolution in 2021.
Since his arrival in the summer of 2023, Messi has proven to be a game-changer for the club. In the 19 matches he played during the regular MLS season, the Rosario native recorded 20 goals and 16 assists, establishing himself as one of the most decisive players in the league. Additionally, Inter Miami claimed the 2024 Supporters' Shield, won the 2023 Leagues Cup, and reached the final of the 2023 US Open Cup.
Although Messi missed several matches due to injuries and national team duties with Argentina, his impact on the field was undeniable. In his return to MLS after the Copa América, he delivered a masterclass in a 6-2 victory over New England Revolution. Coming on in the second half, Messi scored a hat-trick in just 30 minutes. This win was crucial in helping Miami break the all-time points record in the league.
The accomplishment is even more impressive considering Messi only played 19 games, while other league leaders like Christian Benteke (DC United) and Luciano Acosta (Cincinnati) appeared in over 30 matches. Despite this, the Argentine finished the season as the league’s second-highest goal scorer and third-best playmaker.
With the MLS Cup title still up for grabs, Messi is already looking ahead to the 2025 Club World Cup. FIFA recently announced that Inter Miami will be one of the participating teams, with the tournament’s opening match set to take place at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium. This gives the American club a prime opportunity to continue making history on the international stage.