Messi Sends Inter Miami to Club World Cup 2025 with Hat-Trick
Messi scores three and Suarez two as Inter Miami beat New England 6-2 to break the MLS regular season points record and seal a berth at the Club World Cup
- Lionel Messi's hat-trick showcased his exceptional talent
- Inter Miami's victory not only secured their place in the Club World Cup
- The entire Inter Miami team played a vital role in their success
In a dazzling display, Lionel Messi netted his second hat-trick of the week, while Luis Suarez added two goals as Inter Miami triumphed over the New England Revolution 6-2. This victory not only shattered Major League Soccer’s regular season points record but also secured Miami’s spot in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
With this win in their final regular season match, Miami finished with 74 points, surpassing the previous record of 73 set by New England in 2021. Messi, who came off the bench in the 58th minute, has now scored 20 goals in just 19 MLS matches, while his former Barcelona teammate Suarez matched that tally in 27 games.
The pressure of breaking the record added excitement to the match, as Inter had already clinched the Supporters’ Shield for the best regular season record, solidifying their status as favorites heading into the MLS Cup playoffs next week.
Miami fell behind 2-0 early on, but Suarez sparked a comeback with two goals before halftime.
Following goals from Argentinian Luca Langoni and Colombian Dylan Borrero that had the home crowd urging for Messi’s entry, Suarez leveled the score with a powerful left-foot finish and a brilliant solo effort.
Once Messi entered the game, he quickly made an impact, assisting Benjamin Cremaschi for a tap-in. A potential New England equalizer by Bobby Wood was disallowed after a VAR review for handball, keeping Miami in front.
Messi then scored his first of the match, beautifully converting a back-heeled pass from Suarez, before sealing his hat-trick with a precise volleyed finish from another Suarez assist in the 89th minute.
His three goals came in a remarkable 11 minutes, marking a triumphant return to form following a two-month injury layoff after the Copa America.
At the post-match celebration, co-owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas were joined by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who confirmed that Miami’s Supporters’ Shield win had secured their entry into the prestigious 2025 Club World Cup.
