Lionel Messi continues to rewrite the history books in Major League Soccer (MLS), leaving fans and analysts in awe with his relentless brilliance. In a thrilling 2-1 victory for Inter Miami over Nashville SC at Chase Stadium, the Argentine icon delivered yet another masterclass, scoring a jaw-dropping free-kick goal in the 17th minute and adding one of the easiest tap-ins of his illustrious career. With these two strikes, Messi not only secured the win but also shattered records that have stood unchallenged for years.
MESSI PUTS IT BOTTOM CORNER ON THE FREE KICK! PERFECTLY PLACED 🎯
(via @FOXSoccer)pic.twitter.com/fUDHJGLZhA
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 13, 2025
Messi’s Free-Kick Masterpiece and a Historic Milestone
The first half saw Messi curl a sublime free-kick into the net, a strike that further cemented his place among the all-time greats in set-piece mastery. This goal propelled him higher in the global rankings for free-kick goals, showcasing his unrivaled precision and artistry. But the night was far from over. Later in the match, Messi capitalized on a defensive error to score a simple yet clinical goal, proving that even at 38, his instincts remain razor-sharp.
MESSI BAGS A BRACE! 🐐
The keeper gives it right to Messi who does not miss 😬 pic.twitter.com/9nzSojcPzI
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 13, 2025
This performance came hot on the heels of a record-breaking display against New England Revolution just days earlier, where Messi scored twice to become the first MLS player to net a brace in four consecutive games. Against Nashville, he went one step further, making history as the first player to score a brace in five straight MLS matches. In doing so, he obliterated a seven-year-old record set by former Atlanta United star Josef Martínez, matching his tally of 11 goals in a six-game span from the summer of 2018.
A Goal-Scoring Machine in MLS
After registering a brace in his fifth consecutive match, @InterMiamiCF forward Lionel Messi (11 goals in six games) tied Josef Martínez (11 from July 4 to Aug. 4, 2018) for the most goals in a six-game span in MLS history. pic.twitter.com/xDKrPoiunF
— MLS Communications (@MLS_PR) July 13, 2025
Messi’s recent form is nothing short of phenomenal. In his last five games, he has found the back of the net 10 times, tying him with Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge as the MLS’s joint-top goalscorer. With 22 goal contributions (goals and assists) this season, he trails only San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer (24) for the league’s most impactful player. At an age when most players slow down, Messi is defying time, playing three MLS games in a week and delivering performances that leave defenders helpless and fans chanting his name.
Inter Miami’s Playoff Push
The victory over Nashville SC keeps Inter Miami firmly in the playoff hunt, with the Herons sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference on 38 points after 19 games. They trail third-placed Nashville by just three points and are five points behind leaders Philadelphia Union, with three games in hand. Messi’s magic is fueling Inter Miami’s charge, but the road ahead is packed with challenges.
What’s Next for Messi and Inter Miami?
Inter Miami’s July schedule is relentless, with key fixtures looming:
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July 16: FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami (MLS) – A clash against the second-placed team in the Eastern Conference.
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July 19: NY Red Bulls vs. Inter Miami (MLS) – A tough away trip to New Jersey.
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July 26: Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati (MLS) – A rematch at Chase Stadium.
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July 30: Inter Miami vs. Atlas F.C. (Leagues Cup) – The start of their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign.
Messi’s participation in the July 26 match against FC Cincinnati is uncertain, as he’s set to dazzle in the MLS All-Star Game on July 23 in Austin, Texas, at Q2 Stadium. Fans will be eager to see if the Argentine maestro can maintain his record-breaking form while juggling a packed schedule.
The Messi Magic Shows No Signs of Fading
Lionel Messi’s arrival in MLS has been a game-changer, and his latest exploits against Nashville SC have sent shockwaves through the league. With a historic five-game brace streak, a free-kick masterclass, and a relentless drive to dominate, Messi is proving why he’s considered the greatest of all time. As Inter Miami pushes for playoff glory, all eyes will be on the Argentine legend to see what records he’ll shatter next. One thing is certain: Messi is far from done rewriting MLS history.