Messi becomes the first MLS player to achieve nine multi-goal games in a single season after scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 4-0 win over Atlanta.
Lionel Messi made Major League Soccer history after scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over Atlanta United, becoming the first player to record nine multi-goal matches in a single MLS season.
Messi, who was rested by Argentina during the international break, played despite limited training with Miami ahead of the playoffs. Head coach Javier Mascherano said, “I spoke to Leo to see if he could play. It was his decision, and clearly, he saw the opportunity… He is a very special player, he’s an icon.”
The 37-year-old’s brace took his league tally to 26 goals in 27 appearances, alongside 18 assists — tying him with San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer for most assists this season. Five of Messi’s nine multi-goal games came consecutively, underscoring his dominance since joining MLS.
With just one round of matches left, Messi leads the league’s scoring chart, two goals ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga.