Lionel Messi Becomes Inter Miami’s All-Time Leading Goal Scorer After 11-Minute Hat-Trick
In another historic night for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise broke records as they defeated the New England Revolution 6-2 in their final regular season match. With a stunning 11-minute hat-trick, Messi not only secured victory but also became Inter Miami’s all-time leading goal scorer.
Lionel Messi’s Hat-Trick Fuels Miami’s Comeback
Messi, who came on as a substitute in the second half, delivered one of his signature performances. With Inter Miami trailing 2-0 after early goals by New England’s Luca Langoni and Dylan Borrero, the Argentine superstar took control, leading his team to a dramatic comeback. His hat-trick, netted between the 78th and 89th minute, brought his season total to 33 goals, surpassing his teammate Leonardo Campana, who previously held the club record with 32 goals.
The rapid-fire goals not only electrified fans at Chase Stadium but also showcased Messi’s enduring talent at the age of 37.
Inter Miami Sets New MLS Point Record
In addition to Messi’s record-breaking feat, Inter Miami’s win marked their 22nd victory of the season, bringing their point total to 74. This achievement set a new MLS point record, surpassing the previous record of 73 points set by the New England Revolution in 2021.
Head coach Gerardo Martino expressed his pride in the team’s performance:
“For the team, it’s a boost of confidence. These 74 points weren’t something planned or a goal we had when the season started, but as it became within reach, we tried to achieve it.”
Martino emphasized that this success belongs to everyone involved in the Inter Miami family, describing it as a collective triumph rather than an individual accomplishment.
Securing a Spot in the 2025 Club World Cup
As a result of their league success, Inter Miami has secured a coveted spot in the 2025 Club World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States. This was announced postgame by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, adding yet another milestone to the club’s remarkable season.
The Lionel Messi-Suárez-Alba Connection: A Barcelona Reunion
The match wasn’t just about Messi’s brilliance. His former Barcelona teammates, Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba, also played pivotal roles in turning the game around. Suárez, who had previously been a star alongside Messi at FC Barcelona, scored two quick goals just before halftime, leveling the score at 2-2. His 20th goal of the season set the stage for Messi’s second-half heroics.
The chemistry between Messi, Suárez, and Alba was evident throughout the match. Messi and Alba combined in the 64th minute, leading to a goal by Benjamin Cremaschi, giving Miami their first lead of the game. From then on, it was all about Messi, who added three more goals to cap off an unforgettable performance.
Lionel Messi’s Hat-Trick: Breaking Down the Goals
- First Goal (78th Minute): Messi picked up the ball just outside the penalty box and unleashed a powerful strike that left the goalkeeper with no chance.
- Second Goal (80th Minute): A quick, clinical finish from close range after a well-timed assist from Suárez.
- Third Goal (89th Minute): A well-coordinated team effort, with Suárez providing the assist, allowed Messi to secure his hat-trick with a perfectly timed strike inside the box.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Following this record-breaking regular season, Inter Miami is preparing for their playoff journey as they seek to capture their first-ever MLS Cup title. The team will face the winner of the Eastern Conference Wild Card match between CF Montréal and Atlanta United in a best-of-three series starting on Friday.
Inter Miami, now armed with the experience and skill of Messi, Suárez, and Alba, are considered strong contenders for the title. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Messi’s leadership will influence the team’s playoff performance, with hopes of adding even more silverware to an already successful season.
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