In a display of sheer brilliance, Lionel Messi netted an incredible hat trick in just 11 minutes, propelling Inter Miami to a record-breaking 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This resounding win allowed Miami to secure the MLS record for the most points in a single season, finishing with 74 points over 34 games. With an impressive record of 22 wins, 4 losses, and 8 draws, the team has outperformed the previous benchmark set by the Revolution in 2021, which stood at 73 points.
Messi’s performance wasn’t merely a showcase of individual skill; it was a pivotal moment in the match that highlighted the resilience and determination of the Inter Miami squad. Trailing by two goals by the 34th minute, the team had to rally, and they looked to their star players for inspiration. Luis Suárez, another key figure in the match, quickly turned the tide by scoring two rapid goals, leveling the match and breathing life back into Miami’s hopes for the record.
Following Suárez’s impressive feat, the team saw Benjamin Cremaschi put Inter Miami ahead for the first time shortly after halftime. However, it was Messi’s entrance that solidified the victory and etched the team’s name in the annals of MLS history. Coming off the bench in the 55th minute, Messi’s electric performance concluded with three goals that not only secured the win but also showcased the Argentine’s extraordinary ability to impact any game.
Both Messi and Suárez finished the regular season with 20 goals each, demonstrating their prowess as one of the most formidable attacking partnerships in the league. While they will finish second in the Golden Boot race behind D.C. United’s Christian Benteke, Messi’s overall contribution of 36 combined goals and assists in just 19 appearances underscores his dominance as he leads the league in overall goal contributions.
This victory is not just a testament to the players’ exceptional talent but also represents a significant milestone for Inter Miami, as it clinches the 2024 Supporters’ Shield—the first major trophy in the franchise’s fledgling history. Following its launching as an expansion club in 2020, Inter Miami has quickly become a contender, notably securing the inaugural MLS vs. Liga MX Leagues Cup shortly after Messi joined in the summer of 2023.
With the playoffs looming on the horizon, Inter Miami finds itself well-positioned for a deep postseason run, thanks in no small part to its star roster. The team will kick off the playoffs on October 25, welcoming either CF Montreal or Atlanta United to their home field. With Messi and Suárez’s combined efforts accounting for a staggering 40 out of Miami’s 79 total goals this season, expectations are high. Their nominations for the 2024 MLS MVP award further reflect their critical role in the club’s success.
As Inter Miami continues its journey, fans are eagerly anticipating what more this dynamic duo can achieve in the playoff battles ahead. With Messi and Suárez driving the team forward, the prospect of securing even more silverware remains alive.