Lionel Messi Record-Breaking Performance Powers Inter Miami Past New England

July 10, 2025: Lionel Messi has etched his name deeper into Major League Soccer history by becoming the first player to score two or more goals in four consecutive matches. The Argentine maestro netted both goals in Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over the New England Revolution on Wednesday.

Messi opened the scoring in the 27th minute following a defensive error and doubled the lead in the 38th minute, beautifully assisted by teammate Sergio Busquets. With these goals, Messi now boasts 14 goals and 7 assists in just 15 matches this season, and he has scored in five straight games.

Inter Miami’s current form is impressive, with four consecutive wins and an unbeaten streak spanning five matches, thanks largely to Messi’s extraordinary performances.

Concerns Over Messi’s Heavy Playing Time

Despite his outstanding form, concerns are mounting about Messi’s heavy workload this season. The star forward has played every minute in his last nine MLS matches, along with appearances in four Club World Cup games and the final four Champions Cup matches. His only rest came during a match against FC Dallas on April 27, and he was substituted early just once this season on March 29.

Manager Javier Mascherano, a former teammate of Messi at Argentina, revealed that the team initially planned to rest Messi in the New England match but decided against it after conceding a goal.

“Our initial plan was to give him some rest tonight. But, once New England scored, we felt the pressure and decided to keep him on. In the next few matches, we need to find the right moment to let him rest,” Mascherano said.

He added, “We were clear that Leo would play. But, we were hoping the game would give us a window to rest him. Once New England scored, we felt it was better to keep him on the pitch. Still, at some point, we need to give him a break.”

Inter Miami will now face the challenge of managing Messi’s playing time carefully to maintain his fitness and avoid burnout as the season progresses.