The GOAT Takes Over Miami
Lionel Messi is redefining greatness in Major League Soccer. On July 19, 2025, the Argentine maestro delivered yet another masterclass for Inter Miami, scoring two goals and assisting two more in a stunning 5–1 victory over the New York Red Bulls.
Not only was this a statement win for Miami, but it also marked a historic personal milestone: Messi overtook Cristiano Ronaldo in total non-penalty goals, reaching 764 — a record many thought was untouchable.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Stats (So Far in 2025)
- Games Played: 17
- Goals Scored: 18
- Assists: 7
- Braces Scored: 6 (in last 7 matches)
- MLS Golden Boot Rank: #1
The numbers are staggering. Even at age 38, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, he may be playing some of the most entertaining football of his career.
Breaking Down the Record: Messi vs Ronaldo
What makes Messi’s record even more impressive is how quickly he achieved it:
Player | Non-Penalty Goals | Matches Played |
---|---|---|
Lionel Messi | 764 | 1,047 |
Cristiano Ronaldo | 763 | 1,214 |
This places Messi not just ahead — but comfortably ahead — in one of football’s most hotly debated rivalries.
What the Football World is Saying
Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami assistant and former teammate, summed it up best:
“Messi transcends the game. He’s our Michael Jordan, our Nadal. You don’t just watch him for goals — you watch him for the magic.”
Even rival fans were applauding online. Social media erupted with praise, trending hashtags like #Messi764, #InterMiami, and #GOATwatch across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Tactical Genius on Display
Messi’s performance wasn't just about scoring. His vision and chemistry with teammates like Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets continues to evolve. The fluidity of Miami’s play — especially in transition — has made them one of the most feared teams in the league.
His second goal was vintage Messi: a slalom run through defenders and a curved shot into the far post. The assist? A perfectly weighted chip behind the line that left the Red Bulls frozen.
19 Straight Years of Greatness
Beyond MLS, Messi hit another milestone: 19 consecutive years with 30+ goal contributions across club and country. Since his breakthrough season with Barcelona in 2006, he’s never dipped below that number. Longevity. Consistency. Excellence.
Can Messi Win the MLS Golden Boot?
At this rate, he’s not just the favorite — he’s running away with it. Barring injury or rotation, Messi is expected to break the MLS single-season goal record.
Current Golden Boot standings:
- Lionel Messi – 18 goals
- Cucho Hernández – 13 goals
- Denis Bouanga – 12 goals
With every game, Messi seems to rewrite history. Fans and pundits now wonder: could this be the most dominant individual MLS season ever?
All-Star Game Drama
Despite his form, there’s controversy brewing. Messi was selected for the MLS All-Star Game, but coach Mascherano expressed concern over his workload:
“I’d prefer he rests. We’ve got a tight calendar and we need him fresh for the playoff push.”
Will Messi play in Austin on July 23? That remains to be seen, but fans are hoping to catch one more glimpse of the GOAT in a showcase match.
What’s Next for Messi?
Inter Miami’s next match is against Atlanta United, and all eyes will be on whether Messi continues his scoring streak. As the MLS playoff picture tightens, Messi’s leadership and experience could be the edge Miami needs to go all the way.
Interesting articles you can read from our page:
- Top 5 Most Successful English Football Clubs (2000–2025)
- Top Transfer News: Liverpool Target Isak, Bayern Eye Rodrygo
- Man City Signs Record Kit Deal With Puma Worth £100M/Season
Related Posts:
- MLS Official Stats Page – Lionel Messi
- Transfermarkt – Lionel Messi Profile
- MLS Golden Boot Race Tracker – Official Site
Final Thoughts
Lionel Messi’s time in Miami is more than a retirement tour — it’s a renaissance. From breaking Ronaldo’s records to electrifying the MLS, he’s proving that age is just a number when it comes to greatness.
For fans, it’s a privilege to witness the final chapters of his historic career. For defenders? It’s a nightmare they can’t wake up from.
Want more Messi magic in your feed?
Subscribe to Inter Miami’s official updates, follow MLS highlights, and never miss another goal from the GOAT.
0 Comments