Lionel Messi Shines Bright: Inter Miami Secures MLS Playoff Spot with Stellar Performance
In a dazzling display of skill and leadership, Lionel Messi propelled Inter Miami into the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs with a commanding 4-0 victory over New York City FC on September 25, 2025. This match not only showcased Messi’s extraordinary talent but also solidified his position as a key player in the league, as he continues to break records and set new benchmarks for excellence.
A Record-Setting Night
Messi’s performance was nothing short of sensational. He began the match by assisting Baltasar Rodríguez, who scored the opening goal just before halftime. This early strike set the tone for the game, allowing Inter Miami to dominate the field. Following this, Messi found the back of the net twice, further extending his lead in the MLS Golden Boot race with a total of 24 goals this season. His first goal came in the 74th minute, where he skillfully chipped the ball over New York’s goalkeeper, Matt Freese, after receiving a perfectly timed through ball from his former Barcelona teammate. Just 12 minutes later, Messi added another goal, finishing low on the dribble after a well-coordinated attack involving Marcelo Weigandt and Luis Suarez, who returned from a three-match suspension to score from the penalty spot.
Dominance in the Golden Boot Race
With these two goals, Messi not only surged ahead of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and Nashville’s Sam Surridge in the Golden Boot standings but also made history. He became the first player to record at least 35 goal contributions in consecutive MLS seasons, with a remarkable tally of 24 goals and 13 assists this year. This achievement places him among the all-time greats in MLS history, tying him for third in single-season goal contributions alongside legends like Josef Martinez and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The only player ahead of him is Carlos Vela, who holds the record with 49 contributions.
Team Spirit and Leadership
Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, praised Messi’s influence on the team, stating, “For me, he tries to show everyone the team spirit.” This sentiment reflects Messi’s role not just as a player but as a leader who inspires his teammates to elevate their game. His ability to create opportunities and score crucial goals has been instrumental in Miami’s success this season.
Playoff Implications
The victory against New York City FC was pivotal for Inter Miami, allowing them to leapfrog both New York and Charlotte FC in the Eastern Conference standings. With a record of 16 wins, 6 losses, and 7 draws, Miami now sits in third place with 55 points, trailing only Philadelphia and FC Cincinnati. The team still has five games left in the regular season, keeping their hopes alive for the MLS Supporters’ Shield, which they aim to secure for the second consecutive year.
Mascherano expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, saying, “I’m happy with the victory, and with how we played. It was a good night for us, and above all, it shows us the way forward.” This statement underscores the importance of maintaining momentum as the playoffs approach.
Historical Context
Messi’s arrival in MLS has not only transformed Inter Miami but has also elevated the profile of soccer in the United States. His presence has drawn significant attention to the league, attracting fans and media alike. Historically, the MLS has seen its share of international stars, but Messi’s impact is unparalleled. His ability to perform at such a high level, even in the twilight of his career, serves as a testament to his dedication and skill.
The league has evolved since its inception in 1993, with a growing emphasis on attracting top talent from around the world. Messi’s signing in 2023 marked a turning point, as it signaled to other elite players that MLS is a competitive and viable option for continuing their careers. The excitement surrounding his matches has led to increased attendance and viewership, further solidifying soccer’s place in American sports culture.
Looking Ahead
As Inter Miami prepares for the upcoming playoff matches, the focus will be on maintaining their current form and leveraging Messi’s experience and skill. The team’s success will depend not only on Messi’s individual brilliance but also on the collective effort of the squad. With the playoffs on the horizon, every match becomes crucial, and the pressure will be on Miami to perform at their best.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s remarkable performance against New York City FC has not only secured Inter Miami’s place in the MLS playoffs but has also reinforced his status as one of the greatest players in soccer history. As the team looks to build on this success, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how far Messi and Inter Miami can go in the postseason. With his record-setting achievements and leadership on the field, Messi continues to inspire a new generation of soccer players and fans in the United States.
