Messi's two goals gave Inter Miami a commanding lead in the first half. In the 27th minute, a New England Revolution player inadvertently headed the ball back towards his own goal, setting up the Argentinian star for a one-touch left-footed finish into the far corner.

His second goal was reminiscent of his Barcelona days. Midfielder Sergio Busquets delivered a through ball, splitting the defense and finding Messi, who had timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap. From the edge of the box, Messi again used his left foot to send the ball across the goalkeeper, Aljaz Ivacic, and into the net.

This is Messi's fourth consecutive match with two goals. He scored two goals and provided an assist in the 4-2 win against Montreal, followed by two goals and two assists in the 5-1 victory over Columbus, and another two goals and an assist in a 4-1 win, also against Montreal.

Messi's tally for the season now stands at 20 goals and 7 assists across all competitions, including 14 goals and 6 assists in MLS. At the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the 38-year-old forward also scored a free-kick in a 2-1 group stage victory over Porto.

Lionel Messi celebrates a goal during Inter Miami's 2-1 win over the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA, 9/7. Photo: Inter Miami

Lionel Messi celebrates a goal during Inter Miami's 2-1 win over the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA, 9/7. Photo: Inter Miami

*This story is developing.

Hong Duy