Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest icons, delivering a masterclass performance in Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Saturday night. Just a day after being rested by Argentina for their friendly match against Venezuela, the 38-year-old superstar dazzled fans with two goals and an assist, leading his team to a resounding home win.
Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, was called up by Argentina for their October friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. The first match took place at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium — home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins — while the second, originally scheduled for Chicago, was relocated to Fort Lauderdale. With MLS continuing through the international break, it remained uncertain whether Messi would feature for Inter Miami or join Argentina’s squad full-time.
Throughout the week, Messi trained with the Argentina national team but was ultimately benched for Friday’s clash against Venezuela. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni explained that he wanted to experiment with striking duo Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez, giving Messi a rare night off.
That decision opened the door for Inter Miami to request Messi’s temporary release from international duty. Head coach Javier Mascherano, a former Argentina captain and Messi’s long-time teammate, confirmed that the team reached out to the national staff.
“Yesterday, before the match, I talked to Scaloni,” Mascherano revealed after the game. “He said Leo wasn’t going to play and would be sitting out. So I spoke to Leo to see if he could feature for us, and he agreed. It was his decision, and he saw an opportunity to help the team.”
The decision paid off beautifully. Messi started against Atlanta and made an instant impact, controlling the tempo and inspiring Miami’s attack from the first whistle. His first goal came in the 39th minute — a trademark curling shot from the edge of the box that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
The Hard Rock Stadium erupted in cheers as Messi’s effort rippled the net, marking his 25th goal of the MLS season and putting him in prime position for the Golden Boot.
But he wasn’t done yet. In the second half, Messi turned provider, setting up his former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba for Miami’s third goal of the night. Their on-field chemistry — honed over years in Europe — was once again on full display as Messi slipped a perfect through-ball for Alba to fire home.
Luis Suárez, another ex-Barcelona star, also found the back of the net, rounding out a vintage performance for Miami’s trio of global icons.
Messi sealed the victory in the 87th minute with his second strike — a clever finish that capped off an outstanding night. With that goal, he moved to the top of the MLS scoring charts with 26 goals, overtaking several rivals in the race for the league’s top scorer award.
After the match, Mascherano praised Messi’s professionalism, leadership, and drive to compete even after a long week of international commitments.
“He’s a very special player — an icon,” said Mascherano. “Even though he didn’t train with us this past week, he showed today why he’s the best. He came in, helped us win, scored two goals, and gave an assist. That’s the mentality that separates him from everyone else.”
Messi’s decision to play for Inter Miami instead of resting fully during the international window demonstrates his deep commitment to the club’s playoff ambitions. The victory solidified Miami’s position in the Eastern Conference standings, where they now sit third, level on points with second-placed FC Cincinnati.
Inter Miami’s playoff qualification had already been secured prior to this match, but Messi’s presence ensured they maintained strong momentum heading into the postseason. The team’s attacking rhythm and chemistry looked sharper than ever — a crucial advantage as they prepare for tougher opponents in the knockout rounds.
Fans and analysts alike hailed Messi’s performance as yet another reminder of his timeless brilliance. At 38, he continues to defy expectations, blending his creativity, finishing, and vision with the energy of a player half his age.
His recent form has also reignited discussions about his longevity in MLS. Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has transformed the club’s fortunes, turning them from a mid-table side into genuine title contenders. His partnership with Alba and Suárez has recreated the magic of their Barcelona days, bringing both entertainment and results to South Florida.
Meanwhile, Argentina’s coaching staff expressed no frustration over Messi’s brief return to club duty. Scaloni, known for his flexible approach, emphasized that maintaining Messi’s fitness and happiness remains the top priority. Argentina won 1-0 against Venezuela in his absence, but the spotlight quickly shifted back to Miami once news broke of Messi’s two-goal heroics.
Looking ahead, Messi is expected to rejoin Argentina ahead of their next friendly against Puerto Rico in Fort Lauderdale — a city that also serves as Inter Miami’s base. This convenient schedule means he can continue balancing club and international duties without major travel disruptions.
With just one regular-season match left, Inter Miami appears poised for a deep playoff run. If Messi continues this form, the dream of securing their first MLS Cup title feels closer than ever.
Mascherano summed it up best: “Leo is our leader — on and off the field. When he’s there, everything changes. The confidence, the rhythm, the belief — it all comes alive.”
As fans filed out of the stadium, chants of “Messi! Messi!” echoed through the stands, a fitting tribute to the man who has redefined soccer wherever he goes.
Whether donning the pink of Inter Miami or the blue and white of Argentina, Lionel Messi continues to inspire millions — proving that greatness knows no age, no league, and no limits.