Messi Delivers Another Masterclass With a Free-Kick and a Gifted Goal

Lionel Messi continues to dominate in the MLS. On Saturday, the Argentine superstar scored both goals in Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Nashville, marking his fifth brace in his last five league matches.

The first came in the 17th minute with a powerful and well-placed free-kick from the edge of the box. Messi’s low shot curved around the wall and sneaked past the right post, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

Shortly after the second half began, Nashville leveled the match. German forward Hany Mukhtar was left unmarked inside the box and headed home in the 49th minute.

But the home side gifted Messi another opportunity just 13 minutes later. Goalkeeper Joe Willis misplayed a pass straight to the Argentine, who coolly dribbled past him and slotted the ball into the net for the 2-1 lead.

Messi Tops the Scoring Chart, Inter Miami Builds Momentum

With those two goals, Messi now sits atop the MLS scoring table with 16 goals, tied with Nashville’s Sam Surridge, who failed to find the net in this direct showdown.

This marks the fifth straight MLS win for Inter Miami and their third since returning from the FIFA Club World Cup, where they reached the Round of 16.

Inter Miami now holds fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 38 points, just five behind leaders Philadelphia, and with three games in hand.

With Lionel Messi in this form, the Herons look poised to be title contenders as the season progresses.