FORT LAUDERDALE
Lionel Messi continues to make history in Major League Soccer, becoming only the second player ever to record at least 40 combined goals and assists in a single regular season. The Argentine superstar reached 41 total contributions after providing three assists in Inter Miami’s 4-1 victory over the New England Revolution on Sunday.
Messi assisted Tadeo Allende’s opener in the 32nd minute before setting up Jordi Alba’s goal with a dazzling dribble just before half-time. After New England reduced the margin through Dor Turgeman in the 59th minute, Messi quickly restored Miami’s control by creating Allende’s second goal. Alba then added another to seal the win.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s match-winning impact, saying, “He gave us the possibility of opening the score and then securing the result. His vision and timing are unmatched.”
Messi now joins Carlos Vela, who set the all-time record of 49 goal contributions with LAFC in 2019, as the only players to reach this milestone. With two games left in the regular season, Messi could still challenge Vela’s record.
The 2024 MLS MVP is also aiming to become the league’s first player to win the award in consecutive years.
Inter Miami, currently third in the Eastern Conference with 59 points, are on course for a top-four finish, which would guarantee home-field advantage in the upcoming MLS Cup Playoffs. Messi’s relentless form continues to inspire his team and delight fans as he chases yet another record-breaking season in American football.