Lionel Messi’s hat trick and Luis Suarez’s brace led Inter Miami to a dominant 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution on October 20, 2024.
This match not only showcased the stars’ exceptional talents but also allowed Inter Miami to set a new Major League Soccer (MLS) record for the most points in a single season, finishing with 74 points.
Early Setback for Inter Miami
The match started poorly for Inter Miami, as New England took an early lead. Argentine winger Luca Langoni scored within just two minutes, catching the home side off guard.
The Revolution doubled their lead in the 34th minute when Dylan Borrero found the back of the net, seemingly slipping the ball through the hands of Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender.
Suarez Sparks Comeback
Luis Suarez ignited Miami’s comeback just before halftime, scoring two goals within four minutes.
His first came after some strong build-up play, leveling the score at 2-2. The Uruguayan striker’s second goal showcased his skill as he created space and finished with precision.
Messi’s Impact Off the Bench
Lionel Messi entered the match in the 58th minute and made an immediate impact. Just seconds after coming on, he assisted Benjamin Cremaschi, who scored to give Miami a 3-2 lead.
Messi then took matters into his own hands, scoring three goals between the 78th and 89th minutes. His first two goals turned a close match into a rout, while his third—set up by Suarez—completed his hat trick and marked his first in MLS.
Historic Achievements
This match was significant for several reasons:
- MLS Record Points: Inter Miami’s victory allowed them to surpass the previous record of 73 points, set by New England in 2021.
- Messi and Suarez Milestone: Both Messi and Suarez finished their first full MLS seasons with 20 goals each, becoming the first teammates in MLS history to reach this milestone in the same season.
- Supporters’ Shield Celebration: Following the match, Inter Miami celebrated winning the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record.
With this victory, Inter Miami heads into the playoffs as the No. 1 seed. They will host their first playoff match at home against either CF Montreal or Atlanta United next weekend.
This marks a historic moment for Inter Miami as they prepare for their inaugural playoff appearance on home turf.
