Messi Makes MLS History, Wins Golden Boot Back-to-back
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has become the first player in the United States’ MLS history to win the Golden Boot in consecutive seasons. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner scored
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami has achieved a remarkable feat in U.S. soccer history by winning the Golden Boot award for a record second consecutive season. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner scored an impressive 26 goals in 31 appearances, outscoring FC Dallas's Peter Musa by four and Nashville's Sam Surridge by five. Messi's incredible goal-scoring prowess also included 17 assists, which set new league records for the second year in a row.
The 39-year-old Argentine's goal tally, combined with his assists, made him the league's top contributor with 43 goals. Messi could soon add another historic milestone to his already extensive list as he aims to become the first player to win the MLS MVP title three times. Despite Inter Miami's impressive individual performances, the team managed to secure only the fourth position in the Eastern Conference, trailing Nashville by 17 points.
Miami will now advance to the first round of the MLS Cup play-offs, where they will face Columbus Crew in a three-game series that begins later in the month.
Written by urgent.news from This Day's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.