{
  "id": 8629046,
  "title": "'Messi will take MLS Golden Boot, that does not interest me,' Israeli star soccer striker to 'Post'",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/messi-will-take-mls-golden-boot-that-does-not-interest-me-israeli",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-20T06:46:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Jerusalem Post",
    "slug": "jerusalem-post",
    "url": "https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-909155"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Tai Baribo, a striker for DC United, is not focused on the MLS Golden Boot race despite his impressive goal-scoring record. The Israeli international told The Jerusalem Post, \"In the end, Messi will take it. It doesn't really interest me.\" Baribo's primary goal is achieving his own goal tally and securing playoff qualification for his team. The story highlights the increasing number of Israeli players in the MLS, with Baribo among several Israeli stars playing in the league. Following a 2-1 win by Charlotte FC over DC United, Baribo expressed his frustration over a goal that was not awarded despite being clearly seen by spectators. Despite the loss, Baribo remains optimistic about DC United's playoff aspirations and the team's improving attacking performance.",
  "summary": "'When an Israeli player succeeds, it opens the door for others,' Tai Baribo told The Jerusalem Post, adding that his personal focus is on reaching the playoffs and his own scoring targets.",
  "key_points": [
    "Messi will win MLS Golden Boot, not Tai Baribo",
    "Israeli striker focuses on goals, playoff qualification",
    "Baribo frustrated over lost goal, optimistic for team"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Baribo's dismissal of the MLS Golden Boot race shifts focus to his team's playoff qualification, highlighting his priorities and differing approach from leading scorer Messi.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}