Lionel Messi’s Hat-trick Helps Inter Miami Break MLS Points Record Against New England Revolution

Inter Miami delivered a spectacular performance, leading up in a 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution on Saturday.

Lionel Messi’s brilliance shone across the pitch, as he scored three goals and provided an assist in just over half an hour of play, leading the team to an MLS-record 74 points.

A Season of Records

The 2023 season was an extraordinary one for Inter Miami. With a staggering record of 22 wins, 4 losses, and 8 draws, the team finished with a winning percentage of .765, eclipsing the previous MLS records.

Before this season, four teams had achieved a .750 winning percentage, including D.C. United and LA Galaxy, who both finished with 24 victories in 1998, and LAFC and New England Revolution in 2019 and 2021, respectively.

Inter Miami now claims the top spot in terms of points and also in terms of overall performance, tying the record for the fewest losses in a regular season with just four.

The team celebrated their triumph by recognizing their Supporters’ Shield win, which they had secured earlier in the month.

Messi: The Catalyst of Success

Lionel Messi, who joined Inter Miami midway through the season, made an immediate impact, finishing the regular season with a remarkable tally of 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches.

His performance against New England was a testament to his skill and determination. With the team facing a 2-0 deficit early in the match, Messi’s fellow superstar, Luis Suárez, struck twice in quick succession to level the score before halftime.

Messi’s first goal came after he was subbed into the match, a goal that demonstrated his trademark poise and precision as he assisted Benja Cremaschi’s go-ahead goal in the 58th minute.

Shortly after, Messi took control of the match, scoring two goals within two minutes, effectively turning a close contest into a commanding victory. The hat trick was capped off in the 89th minute, when Suárez selflessly flipped the ball to Messi, allowing him to finish off a brilliant performance and secure his first hat trick as an Inter Miami player

Looking Ahead

While there was a moment of concern in the 74th minute when Messi was fouled and appeared to be in pain, he was able to shake it off, alleviating fears regarding his fitness. Having previously missed 15 matches in 2024 due to international commitments and a prolonged ankle injury, every minute on the pitch is invaluable for both Messi and the team.

With the regular season wrapped up, Inter Miami is poised to enter the MLS Cup playoffs with momentum on their side. Their first match is scheduled for Friday night, marking the club’s first-ever home playoff game.