Messi’s Unprecedented Goal-Scoring Streak
On July 12, 2025, Lionel Messi extended his own Major League Soccer record by scoring a brace for the fifth straight match in Inter Miami’s 2–1 win over Nashville SC. The feat marked the first time any player in MLS history has achieved five consecutive multi-goal performances in regular-season play 1.
Match Highlights vs. Nashville SC
Messi opened scoring in the 17th minute with a trademark free kick, beating Nashville’s wall and goalkeeper Joe Willis. He later capitalized on a defensive error in the 62nd minute to seal the victory 2. His two goals not only broke Nashville’s 15-game unbeaten streak since April but also boosted Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference standings 3.
Stat Sheet: Goals, Rankings & Records
- Messi now has 16 MLS goals in 16 matches—tied with Nashville’s Sam Surridge for the league lead 4.
- His streak of five consecutive braces surpasses his own record of four, initially set against New England Revolution, Montreal, Columbus, and now Nashville 5.
- This is the first time an MLS player has recorded a multi-goal game in five straight league matches 6.
Manager’s Praise & Tactical Insights
Manager Javier Mascherano lauded Messi’s leadership and match-winning influence, calling it “incredible” and praising his consistency 7. Mascherano also addressed rotation concerns, indicating the team will manage Messi’s playing time amid fixture congestion 8.
Historical Context & Comparisons
Messi’s current run mirrors a 2012 sequence at Barcelona, when he recorded six consecutive multi-goal LaLiga matches—but this MLS streak is the first of its kind in the US league 9. Beyond individual brilliance, his impact has translated into wins: Inter Miami is now on a five-match winning streak 10.
Timeline of the Record-Breaking Run
- Early July 2025: Brace vs. Philadelphia Union sparks streak.
- Subsequent braces against Columbus, Montreal, New England, and Nashville.
- July 12, 2025: Historic fifth straight brace in Nashville match, final score 2–1.
Trivia & Quiz Highlights
- First-ever MLS player with five consecutive two-goal games.
- Messi and Sam Surridge both have 16 goals in 16 MLS matches.
- Messi’s 17th-minute free kick was his 69th career direct free-kick goal; sixth in MLS 11.
- He surpassed Josef Martínez’s six two-goal streak from 2016 in MLS history 12.
Conclusion
Messi’s streak is a testament to his enduring genius—even at 38, he’s redefining excellence in a new league. His combination of free-kick mastery, opportunism, and leadership makes him not just an elite player, but a historic force in MLS.
Source: Espn India