Mark off another milestone for Lionel Messi.
Inter Miami CF's superstar No. 10 kept his torrid run of form rolling Wednesday evening, contributing 2g/1a as the Herons clinched an Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs spot with a 4-0 rout at New York City FC.
The outburst gives Messi 37 goal contributions in 2025 (24g/13a), making him the first player in MLS history to record 35 goal contributions in back-to-back seasons.
The GOAT is tied with Josef MartÃnez and Zlatan Ibrahimović for third all-time in MLS single-season goal contributions, and trails first-place Carlos Vela (49) with five games left in Inter Miami's campaign.
MVP repeat?
Messi has tallied 5g/3a in Miami's last three matches, as the iconic Argentine chases a second straight Landon Donovan MLS MVP award. No player in MLS history has won MVP in back-to-back seasons.
With his latest brace, Messi now has sole ownership of the Golden Boot presented by Audi lead. His 24 goals outpace LAFC forward Denis Bouanga (22 goals) and Nashville SC striker Sam Surridge (21 goals).
Wednesday's match was Messi's league-leading eighth multi-goal game this season, which ties him for the most during a season in league history.
Late-season surge
Messi's hot streak has propelled Miami to third place in the Eastern Conference, with Wednesday's result the third straight victory for Javier Mascherano's side.
Since a 3-0 defeat at Charlotte FC on Sept. 13, the Herons have rattled off wins over Seattle Sounders FC, D.C. United and NYCFC to secure a second straight postseason berth, and keep them within striking distance of a Supporters' Shield repeat.
Inter Miami (55 points) still trail FC Cincinnati (58 points) and the Philadelphia Union (60 points) in the Shield race, but have two games in hand on both clubs.
Messi & Co. will look to extend their winning streak on Saturday when they visit Toronto FC (4:30 pm ET | MLS Season Pass).
