FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts – Lionel Messi etched his name further into Major League Soccer history on Wednesday, July 10, 2025, delivering a performance that not only secured a vital 2-1 victory for Inter Miami over the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium but also established an unprecedented league record.
The Argentine maestro scored both of Inter Miami’s goals – one in the 27th minute and the decisive winner in the 38th minute – achieving a feat no player before him had accomplished: scoring multiple goals in four consecutive MLS league games. This ‘special’ achievement, as it has been widely described, underscored Messi’s profound impact on the league since his arrival.
Match Overview: Messi’s Decisive Performance
The encounter at Gillette Stadium, home to both the Revolution and the NFL’s New England Patriots, provided a dramatic backdrop for Messi’s historical night. Inter Miami, seeking to extend their winning run and improve their standing in the congested Eastern Conference, faced a determined New England side.
Messi opened his account in the 27th minute, showcasing his characteristic composure and clinical finishing. His second goal, arriving just 11 minutes later in the 38th minute, proved to be the difference-maker in the match. These two strikes were pivotal, putting Miami ahead and setting the stage for the record-breaking moment.
The match was not without its challenges for Inter Miami. Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari played a crucial role in preserving the lead, making six saves throughout the ninety minutes, denying the Revolution opportunities to level the score or take control of the game. New England did manage to pull a goal back, making the score 2-1, which led to a tactical decision discussed by the coaching staff after the match.
Breaking the Record: A Streak of Brilliance
Messi’s multi-goal performance against the Revolution marked the fourth consecutive MLS league game in which he has scored at least two goals. This remarkable streak began in May, demonstrating a sustained period of exceptional form and goal-scoring prowess. The previous matches contributing to this historical run included victories over CF Montréal, where Miami triumphed 4-2, and Columbus Crew, a game that saw Inter Miami win 5-1. Each of these matches featured multiple goals from the legendary forward, building towards the record-setting night in Foxborough.
Prior to this streak, no player in the history of Major League Soccer had managed to score two or more goals in four consecutive league outings. This record highlights Messi’s unique ability to consistently deliver high-impact offensive performances at the highest level of the North American league, setting a new benchmark for goal-scoring consistency.
Inter Miami’s Momentum and Standings Impact
The 2-1 victory over the New England Revolution was also significant for Inter Miami as a team. It marked their fourth consecutive victory in MLS league play, indicating a strong period of form and momentum. This winning streak has been crucial for their position in the Eastern Conference standings.
Following the win, Inter Miami climbed in the standings, moving from sixth place to fifth place. While they still trail the current Eastern Conference leaders, FC Cincinnati, by seven points, Miami holds a significant advantage with three games in hand. This means they have the opportunity to close the points gap substantially should they perform well in those catch-up fixtures. The climb to fifth place is a positive development in their campaign to secure a strong playoff position.
Coaching Insight and Player Management
Managing a player of Messi’s caliber, particularly his workload and fitness, is a key consideration for Head Coach Javier Mascherano. Speaking after the match, Mascherano shed light on the strategic decisions made during the game, particularly regarding Messi’s minutes on the pitch.
Mascherano acknowledged the importance of balancing Messi’s need for rest with the demands of tight matches. He specifically mentioned the moment New England scored to reduce the deficit to 2-1. Despite the potential temptation to manage Messi’s minutes more conservatively, the coaching staff chose to keep him on the field. This decision underscored the belief in Messi’s ability to influence the game even when the opposition is pushing, and ultimately, it proved beneficial as Miami held on for the win.
“It’s always a discussion, managing Leo,” Mascherano commented. “But in moments like that [when New England scored], his presence, his ability to control the tempo or create something, is invaluable. We felt keeping him on gave us the best chance to secure the three points.”
Messi’s Season Contribution
Messi’s two goals against the Revolution brought his total tally for the 2025 MLS season to 14 goals in 15 games. This statistic reflects an impressive goal-scoring rate, underscoring his immediate and sustained impact since joining the league. His consistent contributions have been a primary driver of Inter Miami’s offensive success and their recent surge in form.
Beyond the raw numbers, Messi’s influence extends to creating opportunities for teammates and drawing defensive attention, fundamentally altering the dynamics of games he plays in. His performance continues to be a focal point for opponents and a source of inspiration for his teammates.
Looking Ahead: The Next Challenge
Inter Miami’s focus now shifts to their next fixture. The team is scheduled to face Nashville SC on Saturday. This upcoming match presents another opportunity for Inter Miami to continue their winning streak and for Messi to potentially extend his run of influential performances. The match against Nashville SC will be a test of Miami’s ability to maintain their momentum and solidify their position in the Eastern Conference.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
Lionel Messi’s record-breaking night at Gillette Stadium was more than just a personal milestone; it was a testament to his enduring quality and his transformative effect on Major League Soccer. Becoming the first player to score multiple goals in four consecutive league games is a significant historical achievement that highlights his unique place in the sport’s history and his current dominance in MLS.
Combined with Inter Miami’s four consecutive wins and climb in the standings, Messi’s performance underscores a team finding its stride, propelled by the brilliance of its superstar. As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Messi and Inter Miami to see what further history they can make together.
