Lionel Messi has once again demonstrated why he is considered one of football’s greatest ever. On MLS Matchday 7, the Argentine superstar found the back of the net in a 1-1 stalemate against Toronto FC. More than just a vital equalizer, the strike etched Messi’s name atop Inter Miami’s record books, pushing him past former striker Gonzalo Higuaín for the most goal contributions in club history.
The goal was Messi’s third of the 2024 season and came during Sunday Night Soccer presented by Continental Tire, a stage that seemed fitting for such a milestone moment.
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Another Record Tumbles as Messi Rewrites Inter Miami History
With his latest performance, the Inter Miami captain now boasts 44 goal contributions in 29 regular-season appearances—a staggering return of 24 goals and 20 assists. The pace and efficiency at which Messi has reached this milestone is remarkable, especially when compared to Higuaín, who took 67 matches to register the same number of goal involvements.
For context, Messi is just five goals shy of equaling Higuaín’s all-time goal tally for the club, a record that seems destined to fall sooner rather than later.
Instant Impact Since Touchdown in South Florida
Since his sensational arrival in summer 2023, Messi has elevated Inter Miami’s stature on and off the pitch. The former FC Barcelona talisman quickly transformed the Herons into genuine contenders, both in domestic and continental competitions.
In his debut campaign, he inspired the club to its first-ever Leagues Cup title, electrifying crowds and injecting belief into a team that had previously struggled for consistency. That spark proved to be a sign of things to come.
A Supporters’ Shield Season to Remember
Messi’s influence didn’t end with silverware in 2023. In the ongoing 2024 season, he has been instrumental in guiding Inter Miami to their maiden Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the MLS team with the highest regular-season points tally.
In just 19 matches, the World Cup winner delivered an eye-watering 20 goals and 16 assists, numbers that helped Inter Miami break the single-season points record and cement their status as MLS heavyweights. The magnitude of his contribution was recognized with the prestigious Landon Donovan MLS MVP award, further confirming his transformative effect on the league.
Setting a New Standard in Major League Soccer
What sets Messi apart isn’t just his statistics but the aura he brings to every stadium, every match, and every touch of the ball. His seamless transition to MLS has raised the bar for performance and professionalism across the league.
The Herons are no longer merely a club building toward potential—they are a championship-caliber squad spearheaded by one of football’s all-time greats. His creative vision, pinpoint passes, and relentless goal-scoring instincts have made him the central figure in Miami’s rise.
With the season still young and his form at its peak, fans can only wonder what heights Messi will reach next. One thing is certain: history continues to follow wherever he goes.
FAQs
How many goal contributions does Lionel Messi have for Inter Miami?
Lionel Messi has 44 goal contributions in 29 regular-season matches for Inter Miami, including 24 goals and 20 assists.
Who held the previous Inter Miami goal contribution record before Lionel Messi?
Gonzalo Higuaín held the previous record for most goal contributions at Inter Miami, which Messi has now surpassed.
When did Lionel Messi join Inter Miami?
Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023.
What major trophies has Lionel Messi won with Inter Miami?
Messi has won the Leagues Cup and helped Inter Miami clinch the 2024 Supporters’ Shield with a record-breaking points tally.
How many matches did Messi take to break Higuaín’s record?
Messi broke the record in just 29 matches, while Higuaín took 67 appearances to reach the same number of goal contributions.
