Lionel Messi is once again redefining greatness, this time in Major League Soccer. With a jaw-dropping free-kick goal and an unmatched scoring streak, the 38-year-old continues to leave his mark in the United States. Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano praises his captain, while standing firmly behind the struggling Luis Suárez.
Historic Goal Streak: Five Consecutive Braces
Lionel Messi delivered another spectacular performance, scoring both goals in Inter Miami’s 2–1 victory over Nashville SC. This result not only secured three points — it made history.
Messi is now the first player in Major League Soccer history to score two goals in five consecutive league matches.
“Every few days, he breaks another record,” said Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano. “Leo sets the standard for all of us. His leadership and hunger push this team forward.”
A Magical Free-Kick and Rising Among Legends
The opening goal of the match came from a picture-perfect free-kick. It was Messi’s 69th career free-kick goal, moving him even closer to the top of the all-time list of free-kick scorers in professional football.
Top Free-Kick Goal Scorers in Professional Football:
- Marcelinho Carioca – 78 goals
- Roberto Dinamite – 75 goals
- Juninho Pernambucano – 72 goals
- Lionel Messi – 69 goals
Just 9 more goals from a free-kick, and Messi could stand atop the list.
Messi’s 2025 MLS Stats: Leading By Example
Messi’s performance in the current season has been nothing short of extraordinary.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 16 |
| Goals Scored | 15 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Goal Involvements | 21 |
| Multi-Goal Games | 5 |
This is Messi’s first five-game multi-goal streak since 2012, when he played for FC Barcelona in La Liga.
Mascherano Defends Suárez Amid Dry Spell
While Messi has taken center stage, questions have been raised about Luis Suárez, who hasn’t scored in three consecutive matches. But Mascherano came to the veteran’s defense:
“You can’t criticize a player who’s scored over 500 goals in his career,” he said. “Luis offers much more than just finishing — just two weeks ago, we were praising his wondergoal against Palmeiras.”
Mascherano also acknowledged that Suárez is being managed carefully, especially after a match on artificial turf in Boston. “We intended to sub him off earlier, but the timing wasn’t right. We’ll continue to be cautious with his minutes.”
The Legend Continues: What’s Next for Messi?
At 38, Lionel Messi is still not just relevant — he’s dominant. With his free-kick tally growing and records falling almost weekly, he shows no sign of slowing down. His presence in MLS has raised the league’s profile, boosted stadium attendances, and inspired a new generation of American fans.
Messi isn’t just playing in the United States — he’s transforming football culture across North America.
