MIAMI, UNITED STATES – Lionel Messi continues to dazzle Major League Soccer fans with yet another incredible performance, netting two goals in Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Nashville SC on Saturday. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner once again proved why he’s considered one of the greatest players of all time, delivering his fifth consecutive multi-goal game and pushing his season tally to 16 goals in just 16 appearances.
The Argentine maestro opened the scoring in trademark fashion, bending a left-footed free-kick past a tightly packed Nashville wall in the 17th minute. Goalkeeper Joe Willis had little chance as Messi’s strike found the only available gap, sending the Miami crowd into a frenzy.
Inter Miami dominated the first half, controlling possession and creating more chances, but Nashville equalized just four minutes after the break. Hany Mukhtar rose to meet a cross and powered home a header that briefly silenced the home supporters.
However, Messi was far from finished. In the 62nd minute, a costly error by goalkeeper Joe Willis gifted the ball to Messi, who calmly slotted it home for the winner. The goal marked yet another game-winning moment for the superstar, continuing a scoring streak that now spans five straight MLS matches with two or more goals.
“There are not many words left to describe what Messi is doing,” said Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano after the match. “It’s incredible. He keeps breaking records, now almost every three days. He is the standard-bearer of our team.”
Mascherano, a former teammate of Messi in the Argentina national team and at Barcelona, praised Messi’s leadership and consistency. “He shows us how to compete, how to play at the highest level. It’s a blessing for me to accompany this stage of his career.”
Messi’s Scoring Run Makes MLS History
Just days earlier, Messi became the first player in MLS history to score multiple goals in four straight league matches, and his latest performance extended that record to five. His tally of 16 goals now ties him with Nashville’s Sam Surridge, who failed to add to his own total during the Saturday clash.
Messi’s influence on Inter Miami’s campaign has been nothing short of transformational. Since returning from a Club World Cup break, where Miami were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16, the team has been on a mission to reclaim dominance in the Eastern Conference.
With 38 points from 19 matches, Miami now sits in fifth place, trailing conference leaders Philadelphia Union by five points. Crucially, they have three games in hand, giving them a real chance to make a push for the top spot as the season progresses.
The victory over Nashville was Miami’s third game since resuming MLS action following their Club World Cup campaign. Their packed schedule continues with a critical midweek clash against Cincinnati, followed by a weekend match against the New York Red Bulls.
While Messi continues to perform at an elite level, Mascherano acknowledged the need to manage his workload carefully, especially as the 38-year-old remains the centerpiece of Miami’s offense.
“At some point, we are going to have to find a space to give him some rest,” Mascherano said. “Right now, he’s feeling good, but we’ll monitor things day by day.”
Despite the concerns about fatigue, Messi has shown no signs of slowing down. His endurance, vision, and trademark left-footed finishing remain as lethal as ever, and his presence on the field continues to elevate those around him.
Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Messi’s influence extends throughout the Miami squad. His ability to draw defenders, create space for teammates, and execute decisive passes has made Inter Miami one of the most feared attacking teams in the league.
Younger players like Benjamin Cremaschi and Diego Gómez have flourished alongside him, learning from his professionalism and composure under pressure. Inter Miami fans, too, have rallied behind their star, with ticket sales and merchandise soaring since his arrival.
As the MLS season heats up, Messi and Inter Miami will look to maintain momentum. With key fixtures ahead and a playoff spot within reach, the team’s focus remains sharp—and with Lionel Messi leading the charge, their ambitions are growing by the week.
Whether it’s breaking records or scoring world-class goals, one thing is clear: Messi’s presence in MLS has redefined what’s possible for soccer in the United States. And for fans in Miami, every match is another chapter in the ongoing legend of Lionel Messi.
Source- EWN
