Inter Miami CF is making headlines as Lionel Messi leads the team in its quest for the MLS Cup. Messi has had an extraordinary playoff season, contributing 13 goal contributions, which includes six goals and seven assists. This remarkable performance accounts for 76% of Miami’s postseason goals, with the team outscoring their opponents 17-4. As the playoffs progress, the pressure is on Messi to secure his 47th trophy at club and international levels, further extending his own world record.
Inter Miami’s Playoff Journey
Inter Miami earned the third seed in the Eastern Conference and commenced their playoff run against the sixth-seeded Nashville SC. The series extended to three games, but Messi’s influence was undeniable. He delivered five goals and three assists, ensuring the Herons advanced past Nashville, particularly with a standout performance in a crucial Game 3.
Dominance in the Eastern Conference Final
Advancing to the Eastern Conference Final, Inter Miami faced the fifth-seeded New York City FC. A victory would allow them to host the MLS Cup. In this decisive match, Messi orchestrated a 5-1 win, contributing an assist that broke the world record for most assists, totaling 405, surpassing Ferenc Puskás’s previous record of 404. This match further boosted Messi’s playoff tally to 13 contributions.
Messi’s Contract and Future with Inter Miami
Before the playoffs, Messi signed a contract extension with Inter Miami that will keep him with the team until 2028. This extension aligns with the planned opening of Miami Freedom Park next April, indicating a long-term commitment to the franchise.
Remarkable Statistics
- Messi’s total goal contributions in MLS history stand at 61, the highest ever recorded.
- He surpassed Carlos Vela’s previous record of 52 in the 2019 season.
- During the regular season, Messi had 48 contributions (29 goals, 19 assists), just one short of Vela’s record of 49.
- Messi achieved his total in 28 games, while Vela took 31 games.
In total, Inter Miami has scored 98 goals across the regular season and playoffs in 2025, setting a new MLS record for a single season. The team’s 17 playoff goals are just one shy of matching the 18 scored by LA Galaxy in 2024. The upcoming MLS Cup will mark the 58th game for Inter Miami in all competitions this year, also a record for any MLS club. Messi has played 48 matches this year, netting 43 goals across various competitions, including the Leagues Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.
