Lionel Messi captained Inter Miami CF to a 4-0 triumph over Atlanta United FC on Saturday night at Chase Stadium, briefly leaving international duty with the Argentina national team to help clinch the crucial three points for the Herons.

Lionel Messi captured his first MLS Golden Boot in outstanding fashion on the final day of the 2025 regular season.

Messi’s hat trick against Nashville follows his performance off the bench against the New England Revolution on Oct. 19, 2024, three days after his 10th international hat trick for Argentina in a World Cup qualifier against Boliva on Oct. 16, 2024. Yeah, two in one week.

A closer look at the numbers suggests what Messi accomplished in 2025 was more impressive and should be considered the greatest attacking season in MLS history.

Lionel Messi has one game remaining in the regular MLS season to break a historic record, which is currently held by Carlos Vela. As of writing, Messi has scored 26 goals and has produced 18 assists,

After reaching his 29th goal of the season, Messi arrives as the solo scoring leader to the playoffs; therefore, he is closer to winning the season's golden boot. Behind him are Dennis Bouanga (LAFC) with 24 goals and Sam Surridge (Nashville SC), also with 24 goals.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were defeated, 5-3, by the Chicago Fire in a wild mid-week matchup at Chase Stadium on Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Inter Miami’s last regular MLS game will be against Nashville SC at GEODIS Park. Inter Miami last played against Atlanta United at home in Chase Stadium. Inter Miami secured a 4-0 win over Atlanta United with a great performance from Lionel Messi. Messi scored a brace and provided an assist in Inter Miami’s win.

Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami into a matchup with Nashville after a two-goal performance against Atlanta United.