Messi has set a record, achieving something that has never happened before in history.
Photo: Reuters
Bangla Press Desk: Watching Lionel Messi play is like witnessing history unfold before your eyes. Major League Soccer (MLS) saw exactly that this Sunday, as Messi scored twice to help Inter Miami defeat Atlanta United 3–1. In the process, Messi set a record never before seen in the history of Major League Soccer.
Messi delivered two brilliant goals and provided an assist in the match, earning the 'Man of the Match' honor. His tally for the current season has now reached 25 goals and 15 assists. He is the first player in MLS history to record at least 15 assists in three consecutive seasons.
Messi achieved this milestone toward the end of the first half. In the 45th minute at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Germán Berterame put Miami ahead—a goal for which Messi provided the secondary assist. It was this assist that etched his name into the MLS record books.
In the 56th minute, Messi extended the lead; he maneuvered past several defenders inside the box before firing a shot with his signature left foot, sending the ball into the net. Four minutes later, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner struck again, showcasing his world-class skill during a sharp counter-attack.
With this performance, Messi has further extended his lead in the race for the MLS Golden Boot. He is also the frontrunner to win the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award for the third consecutive time—a feat that would, in itself, be historic.
This victory marks three consecutive wins for Inter Miami, during which they have scored a total of 9 goals while conceding only 1. Having already secured their playoff spot earlier in the week, the reigning champions appear to be hitting their stride. They have solidified their second-place position in the Eastern Conference with 55 points, ensuring the advantage of playing at home during the first round of the playoffs.
Even greater goals lie ahead. Miami aims to become the first team since the LA Galaxy in 2011–12 to win the MLS Cup in two consecutive years.
BP/TD
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