In a remarkable display of talent and tenacity, Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a phenomenal victory over the New England Revolution, sealing their place in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. The match, played at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, showcased not only Messi’s brilliance but also the team’s extraordinary resolve as they clinched the record for the most points accrued in a single MLS season. With a final score of 6-2, Inter Miami ended the regular season boasting an impressive 74 points, surpassing the prior record of 73 set by the Revolution in 2021.
The road to victory was not without its challenges. Inter Miami initially found themselves trailing by two goals within the first 34 minutes of the match. Yet, the team’s spirit shone brightly as Luis Suárez ignited their comeback, scoring twice in a thrilling span of just four minutes. This critical swing in momentum not only brought the team back to level terms but also paved the way for a performance that would seal their historic season. With young talent Benjamin Cremaschi putting Miami in the lead in the second half, the stage was perfectly set for Messi’s legendary impact to unfold.
Coming off the bench at the 55-minute mark, Messi showcased why he is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner netted an extraordinary hat trick in just 11 minutes, contributing significantly to Inter Miami’s overall offensive prowess. Finishing the regular season with 20 goals, he matched Suárez’s tally, both of whom played pivotal roles in the team’s remarkable 2024 campaign. Messi also emerged as the leader in goal contributions across the league, accumulating an astonishing 36 combined goals and assists in a mere 19 games.
Championship Aspirations and Future Challenges
Inter Miami’s recent achievements were further highlighted by their first-ever Supporters’ Shield, a testament to their dominance throughout the season. Having previously claimed the inaugural MLS vs. Liga MX Leagues Cup shortly after Messi’s arrival, the team is brimming with confidence as they head into the playoffs slated to commence on October 25. With home-field advantage secured, their match will see them face the winner of the Eastern Conference Wild Card bout between CF Montreal and Atlanta United.
As the postseason looms, Messi and Suárez’s strategic partnership remains a focal point, with both players earning nominations for the 2024 MLS MVP award, a reflection of their critical contributions to Miami’s success. The duo has accounted for nearly half of the team’s total goals, signaling their vital importance in future matches. As Inter Miami gears up for their playoff run, fans and analysts alike are left to ponder whether this historic season could culminate in even greater triumphs. The combination of seasoned talent and youthful exuberance suggests that Miami’s ascent in MLS is just beginning, laying the groundwork for an exciting future filled with potential accolades.