Messi's hat trick leads Inter Miami to record-breaking win and historic MLS season
Lynne Sladky

Messi's hat trick leads Inter Miami to record-breaking win and historic MLS season

Lionel Messi's three goals power Inter Miami to a 6-2 victory, breaking MLS records for most points and highest winning percentage, as the team gears up for its first-ever home playoff match

Lionel Messi’s entry into the match early in the second half changed everything for Inter Miami as they secured a record-breaking 6-2 win over New England on Saturday night. Messi delivered his first MLS hat trick and an assist in just 30 minutes, helping his team set new records for the most points in a season and the highest winning percentage in Major League Soccer history. With the win, Inter Miami ended their regular season with 74 points, surpassing New England’s 2021 record of 73 points. Miami’s final record of 22-4-8 gave them a .765 winning percentage, the best ever seen in MLS, beating the previous .750 shared by four teams, including New England.

"This night is yours," said Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas as the team celebrated their achievements and the Supporters’ Shield, won earlier in the month. The Miami fans witnessed Messi and teammate Luis Suarez, who scored twice, bring home the victory in thrilling fashion. Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham praised the team, saying, "Our players have led us in difficult times, but now we celebrate. Tomorrow, we prepare for the playoffs."

Messi, who joined Inter Miami midway through the 2023 season, and Suarez both finished the season with 20 goals each, marking the first time two MLS teammates have hit that milestone in the same season. Messi capped off the game with a late goal, assisted by Suarez, to complete his hat trick. Despite an early scare when Messi appeared to be injured, he quickly bounced back, turning a narrow 3-2 lead into a comfortable win. Now, Inter Miami looks ahead to the playoffs, where they will host their first-ever home playoff match next Friday. "Onto the playoffs, and we'll be ready," Beckham said.

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