Lionel Messi made history on Saturday night by becoming the first player in MLS history to provide five assists in a single game, helping Inter Miami to a 6-2 victory over the New York Red Bulls. Messi also scored a goal himself, setting a record for the most goal contributions in a single match with six. With 10 goals and 12 assists in just eight matches, Messi is on pace to challenge several MLS records this season.
All of Messi’s contributions came in the second half of the match after the Red Bulls had taken a 1-0 lead at halftime. Despite missing some games due to commitments with the Argentina national team and potential injury concerns, Messi’s recent form suggests that he is capable of achieving historic milestones. With the help of his teammate Luis Suarez, Messi has a chance to break records for goals and assists in a single season, although it may be challenging given the limited number of games he is expected to play.
While Messi’s goal-scoring rate is currently ahead of the record set by Carlos Vela in 2019, surpassing Vela’s total of 34 goals in a single season may be difficult. However, Messi’s potential to surpass the record for most assists in a season, currently held by Carlos Valderrama with 26, seems more likely. Messi’s chemistry with Suarez and other teammates could lead to him climbing to the top of the list for assists in a single season, surpassing the likes of Sacha Kljestan and Maxi Moralez.
Another record within Messi’s reach is the most consecutive games with goals, currently held by Josef Martinez with 15. Messi has already scored in eight consecutive matches and could potentially equal or surpass Martinez’s record. Additionally, Messi’s goals-per-game ratio is higher than Vela’s record of 1.10 goals per game, making it likely that he will break this record as well. Messi’s role as the primary penalty taker for Inter Miami gives him more opportunities to score, although injuries could impact his performance.
In terms of assists per game, Valderrama’s record of 0.95 assists per game in 1997 may be within Messi’s reach. With an average of 1.50 assists per game currently, Messi could surpass Valderrama’s record if he continues to build strong relationships with his teammates, particularly Suarez. Despite potential challenges such as injuries and the need for load management, Messi’s exceptional talent and drive to succeed make it likely that he will continue to make MLS history throughout the season.
Overall, Messi’s impact on the MLS has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his pursuit of multiple records highlights his exceptional skill and determination on the field. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as Messi continues to rewrite the record books and solidify his place as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
