Messi Closes In on Golden Boot and Makes MLS History

Argentina Legend, Lionel Messi scores another brace to strengthen his position at the top of the MLS Golden Boot standings, giving him a six-goal advantage over his closest challengers.

Messi continued his remarkable goalscoring form with two trademark second-half goals as Inter Miami defeated Atlanta United 3-1 on Saturday, taking his Major League Soccer (MLS) tally to a league-leading 25 goals.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner scored twice in four minutes after German Berterame had given Miami the lead in the 45th minute, helping his side secure a third consecutive victory.

Former Miami forward, Fafà Picault scored a late consolation goal for Atlanta from the penalty spot.

Messi was also credited with a secondary assist on Berterame’s opening goal.

The Argentine made history by becoming the first player in MLS history to record at least 15 assists in three consecutive seasons.

He also moved level for the most assists in the league this season, with 15 alongside Son Heung-Min of Los Angeles FC.

His contribution against Atlanta also extended his run of scoring or assisting in 13 consecutive matches, matching the second-longest streak of his career across club and international football.

Messi Turns on the Magic

After Berterame put Miami ahead just before half-time, Messi took control of the contest following the restart.

The Argentine forward doubled Miami’s advantage in the 56th minute after driving infield from the right wing and exchanging passes with Berterame near the edge of the penalty area.

He then danced past an Atlanta defender before firing a low shot into the net.

Four minutes later, Messi struck again with another impressive solo effort.

Luis Suárez released him on a breakaway, allowing the Argentine to take on another defender before beating Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos with his left foot.

The brace took Messi’s career goals tally to 936, bringing him closer to the landmark of 1,000 goals. Miami head coach Cristian “Kily” González was left in awe of the forward’s performance.

“He never ceases to amaze the world,” González said of Messi afterward.

“I mean, I honestly can't believe that a guy like him, at 39 years old, is doing what he's doing."

"And what makes me happiest is seeing that he's truly happy, because he's happy, he gives everything he has."

"He enjoys himself and feels right at home."

“As I always say, he pushes us to be better every single day. It's an immense joy to have him here."

"Everyone knows how special our relationship is. Every time I see him, he brings a smile to my face. I'm still constantly amazed by him.”

'Messi Can Score 1000 Goals' - González

González believes Messi can reach the 1,000-goal milestone, pointing to the forward’s appetite for challenges.

“Yes, I believe he'll reach 1,000 goals,” González said.

“I have faith in that. I know he will, because he loves a challenge, he sets challenges for himself and since he's already achieved everything else, this will be no exception.”

“He dazzles me with every single action, every time I see him in training."

"I truly hope he continues to amaze us right up until the day he decides to retire, which, hopefully, won't be for a long time yet.”

Another Memorable Night in Atlanta

Saturday’s performance provided another memorable moment for Messi at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

This is his first appearance at the venue since Argentina’s dramatic victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final in July.

Messi supplied two late assists in that match to help Argentina secure the win.

The forward has continued his impressive form since bidding farewell to the Argentina national team in a friendly against Benin earlier this month, scoring four goals in three matches.

Inter Miami Strengthen Playoff Push

Inter Miami, who secured their place in the playoffs on Wednesday, have now won three consecutive matches and sit second in the Eastern Conference, behind runaway leaders Nashville.

Atlanta United, coached by Gerardo “Tata” Martino, Messi’s former coach at both Miami and Argentina, remain 14th in the Eastern Conference and face an uphill battle to qualify for the postseason.

Miami will look to extend their winning run when they visit the New York Red Bulls next Saturday.