MLS: Messi bags hat-trick as Inter Miami set points record
Lionel Messi, the captain of Inter Miami, scored a stunning 11-minute hat-trick to help his team record the most points in a Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The record was set after their 6-2 win over the New England Revolution at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on October 19. The team finished the regular MLS season with a whopping 74 points from 34 matches, setting a new record.
How Inter Miami conceded two early goals
Inter Miami's record-breaking journey had its hurdles. The team found themselves trailing by two goals after 34 minutes into the match. However, Luis Suarez ignited a comeback by scoring two goals in less than four minutes, keeping their pursuit of the points record alive. Suarez's equalizer came from a solid left-foot finish after an assist by David Martinez.
Messi's hat-trick scripts history; Suarez shines
Messi, who had recently bagged a hat-trick for Argentina against Bolivia, was key to Inter Miami's place in league history. Messi scored his first goal when he powered in a left-foot shot from just outside the area after combining with former Uruguay international Suarez (78'). Three minutes later, he then side-footed in a second. His third goal came in the 89th minute. Suarez provided the cross. Suarez had a solid show. He clocked two goals and two assists.
Numbers: Messi becomes Inter Miami's all-time leading scorer
Messi continued his scoring spree with his first hat-trick for Miami (78th minute). With this, he also became the club's all-time leading goal-scorer (33). Messi has played 36 games for the club. In 2024, he has smashed 22 goals in 22 matches in all competitions. Notably, 20 of his goals have come in the MLS from 19 games this year.
59th career hat-trick for magician Messi
Messi scored his 59th career hat-trick for club and country. This was his 49th hat-trick in club level. Notably, 37 of his hat-tricks have come in league football. Recently, Messi scored his 10th international hat-trick.
Which side held the previous record?
As mentioned, Inter Miami now hold the record for scoring most points by a side in an MLS season. They broke the record of New England Revolution, who set a mark of 73 points in 2021.
Inter Miami's historic season and future prospects
Despite being behind DC United's Christian Benteke on the Golden Boot list, Messi has the most goal contributions (36 goals and assists in 19 games). Co-owner David Beckham said he was proud of the team's performance, adding "our captain has led us, the players have led us in times where it was difficult." He also revealed FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed Miami will play in the 2025 Club World Cup and host their opening game at Hard Rock Stadium.
