MLS won’t ever grow into one of the best leagues in the world off the back of World Cup
Messi picks up right where he left off
His international career may be in the rearview mirror, but Lionel Messi isn’t slowing down. Four days removed from his Argentina retirement sendoff, where he posted 1g/2a against Benin, the 39‑year‑old stepped back into Inter Miami’s lineup and immediately took control of the night. By the end of the Walmart Saturday Showdown at Nu Stadium, he’d scored twice, setting the tone for a commanding 4‑0 win over D.C. United.
Messi’s return felt less like a comeback and more like a continuation. The touches were sharp, the timing crisp, and the finishing ruthless. Miami didn’t just get their captain back — they got the full version.
Golden Boot and MVP chase heat up
Even without Argentina duties, Messi’s competitive fire hasn’t dimmed. Saturday’s brace pushes him to 23g/13a on the season, four goals clear of FC Dallas striker Petar Musa in the MLS Golden Boot race. He’s chasing back‑to‑back scoring titles and, just as notably, a third straight Landon Donovan MLS MVP — something no player has ever done.
And he wasn’t the only one shining. Luis Suárez delivered 2g/1a, continuing a remarkable run that now sits at 15g/9a. It’s his third straight season with double‑digit goals and 20‑plus goal contributions, a level of consistency that head coach Cristian “Kily” González didn’t hesitate to underline.
“Luis is one of the most important players on the squad,” González said. “He’s totally committed, not only to us but to the club. Anybody who didn’t understand before should understand now that he’s a fundamental player for this team.”
A needed turning point for Miami
Beyond the celebrations, Miami needed this result. One win in ten matches heading into the international break had tightened the pressure around González’s early tenure. Saturday felt like a release — a performance with clarity, urgency, and purpose.
The Herons avoided slipping toward the middle of the Eastern Conference and instead strengthened their hold on the No. 2 spot behind Nashville SC. González saw the same signs his players felt.
“I think we defended very well; we were very decisive and scored in the right moments,” he said. “I think we could’ve scored more goals, so I’m satisfied.”
Six games to shape the finish
With six regular‑season games left, Miami has a chance to build momentum at the right time. The next test comes Wednesday at home against New York City FC (7:30 pm ET | Apple TV), where the Herons will try to win back‑to‑back matches for the first time since July.
Messi’s magic hasn’t faded. Suárez is rolling. And Miami, after weeks of turbulence, finally looks like a team ready to climb again.
