Lionel Messi Sets Latest MLS Record in Starring Performance vs. Ex

Key Points:

• Lionel Messi became the first MLS player to record 30 goal contributions in three separate seasons during Inter Miami's 2–2 draw with Atlanta United, currently leading the Golden Boot race with 18 goals and 12 assists in 20 appearances this year.
• Messi assisted both goals in the match, setting up Casemiro and Luis Suárez, while Atlanta's Breel Embolo scored his debut goal against Messi after a penalty, following a recent World Cup quarterfinal red card incident.
• Former coach Gerardo Martino, who led Inter Miami to their best MLS regular season in 2024 and previously coached Messi at Barcelona and Argentina, made an emotional return and embraced Messi post-match, acknowledging the player's recent announcement to retire from international soccer.
• Despite Messi's strong performance, Inter Miami remains third in MLS and 11 points behind Supporters’ Shield leaders Nashville SC, largely due to defensive struggles including positional changes and errors from Casemiro, Falcón, and Caicedo.
• The team’s defensive issues have been exacerbated by the sale of veteran Noah Allen, leaving Miami with limited defensive versatility, which was a significant factor in their inability to secure a win against Atlanta.