Lionel Messi achieved a major milestone on Saturday, becoming Inter Miami’s all-time leading scorer after netting a hat trick in a 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution. This achievement marks his second hat trick of the week, following his earlier performance for Argentina against Bolivia.
The Argentine superstar, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, now has 33 goals for the club. His latest hat trick helped Inter Miami secure a strong finish to their regular season, bringing their total to 74 points. This surpassed New England’s previous MLS record of 73 points set in 2021. Inter Miami’s victory not only solidified their status as favorites for the upcoming MLS Cup playoffs but also clinched the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular season record.
Messi, who entered the match in the 58th minute, played a pivotal role in turning the game around for Inter Miami. The team had initially trailed 2-0, with goals from New England’s Luca Langoni and Dylan Borrero. The crowd at the stadium eagerly chanted for Messi’s introduction after Miami fell behind, but it was Luis Suarez, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, who first sparked the comeback.
Suarez, a key player for Miami, scored twice before halftime, bringing the score to 2-2. His first goal came after a well-executed move by David Martinez, followed by a solo effort that saw him create space and finish with precision. These goals set the stage for Messi’s entrance and Miami’s late surge.
Upon taking the field, Messi quickly made an impact. He assisted in Miami’s go-ahead goal, finding Jordi Alba, who set up Benjamin Cremaschi for a straightforward tap-in. New England appeared to have equalized shortly afterward with a strike from Bobby Wood, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for handball.
Messi then took over the match, scoring three goals within an 11-minute span. His first came after receiving a back-heeled pass from Suarez, which he converted with a powerful shot into the far bottom corner. Moments later, he capitalized on a precise pass from Alba, adding his second goal. He completed his hat trick in the 89th minute, expertly meeting a volleyed cross from Suarez with a precise, first-time finish.
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This performance by Messi came after a two-month absence following an injury during the Copa America. His return to form was highlighted by his immediate impact and decisive play. Inter Miami’s coach, Gerardo Martino, expressed confidence in Messi’s condition as the team prepares for the playoffs, saying, “I have the feeling that we have him in an ideal situation to face the most important part of the year.”
The post-match celebrations included a presentation of the Supporters’ Shield, with club co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas joined by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Infantino announced that winning the Shield secured Inter Miami a spot in the 2025 Club World Cup, adding to the club’s achievements this season.
Messi’s record-breaking performance and the team’s strong finish have given Inter Miami a surge of momentum heading into the MLS Cup playoffs. With Messi and Suarez leading the attack, Miami’s fans are hopeful for continued success as the club sets its sights on capturing the championship.