Lionel Messi Shines with 11-Minute Hat Trick as Inter Miami Sets MLS Points Record in 6-2 Victory

Lionel Messi Shines

Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance by scoring an incredible 11-minute hat trick, leading Inter Miami to a commanding 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution. This win allowed Miami to break the Major League Soccer record for most points in a single season, finishing with 74 points from 34 games. Their record of 22 wins, 4 losses, and 8 draws surpasses the previous mark of 73 points held by the Revolution from 2021.

After falling behind by two goals in the first half, Luis Suárez sparked the comeback by netting two quick goals in under four minutes. Benjamin Cremaschi then put Miami ahead for the first time in the 58th minute. Messi entered the match as a substitute in the 55th minute and quickly made an impact, scoring the fourth, fifth, and sixth goals of the night to solidify Miami's historic achievement.

Both Messi and Suárez ended the regular season with 20 goals each, finishing second in the Golden Boot race behind D.C. United’s Christian Benteke. However, Messi leads the league in total goal contributions, with an impressive 36 goals and assists combined in just 19 games.

Having already clinched the 2024 Supporters' Shield—Inter Miami’s first trophy since joining the league in 2020—the team is poised for the playoffs. They will kick off their postseason on October 25, hosting the winner of the Eastern Conference Wild Card match between CF Montreal and Atlanta United. The contributions of Messi and Suárez have been crucial, accounting for 40 of the team’s total 79 goals this season, earning them both nominations for the 2024 MLS MVP award.

Lionel Messi Shines with 11-Minute Hat Trick as Inter Miami Sets MLS Points Record in 6-2 Victory