Lionel Messi Takes Lead in MLS Golden Boot Race With Record-Breaking Performance

October 12, 2025 admin

Lionel Messi has taken sole control of the 2025 MLS Golden Boot race, delivering yet another breathtaking performance for Inter Miami CF in their dominant 4-0 victory over Atlanta United on Saturday night at Chase Stadium.

The Argentine icon scored twice and added an assist in the crucial Eastern Conference clash, pushing his season tally to 26 goals — now two ahead of LAFC star Denis Bouanga (24). The brace also marks Messi’s ninth multi-goal game of the campaign, breaking a three-way tie with MLS legends Stern John (1998), Mamadou Diallo (2000), and Zlatan Ibrahimović (2019) — each of whom had eight in a single season.

With the postseason fast approaching, Messi’s form is not only cementing his dominance in the league but also rewriting MLS history. The Inter Miami forward now has 44 goal contributions (26 goals, 18 assists), placing him just five shy of the single-season record of 49, set by Carlos Vela for LAFC in 2019.

Beyond goals, Messi continues to elevate his teammates. In the second half against Atlanta, he assisted Jordi Alba’s strike, which brought him level with San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer as the joint-assist leader (18) for the season.

This season could also see Messi earn another first: becoming the only player in MLS history to win the Landon Donovan MVP award in back-to-back years. With Inter Miami already securing home-field advantage in the first round of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, Messi’s impact is both statistical and strategic.

Inter Miami wraps up the regular season next Saturday against Nashville SC (6 PM ET, MLS Season Pass). With the Golden Boot still up for grabs and history within reach, all eyes will be on Messi as he attempts to further solidify his MLS legacy.

📌 Takeaways:

Lionel Messi now leads the MLS Golden Boot race with 26 goals.
Breaks the MLS record for most multi-goal games in a season (9).
Tied for assist leader (18) and 5 contributions shy of all-time MLS season record.
Inter Miami has clinched home-field advantage in Round One of the playoffs.
Final regular-season match vs. Nashville SC on Decision Day.