The last time Cristiano Ronaldo scored four goals in a single match was on Feb. 9, 2023, during Al-Nassr FC’s 4-0 victory over Al Wehda in the Saudi Pro League—more than three years ago.

However, both players remain within reach of one of soccer’s greatest milestones: reaching 1,000 career goals, an achievement that would further cement their legacies in the sport.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s last four-goal performance

Ronaldo put Al Nassr—managed at the time by Rudi Garcia—ahead with a left-footed cross-shot before capitalizing on a pass into space to make it 2-0, putting together a masterclass in just 40 minutes before adding two more in the second half.

In the 21st minute against Al Wehda, Ronaldo controlled a pass in space from Ghareeb inside the box, finishing from a tight angle with his left foot to put Al-Nassr in front. In the 40th minute, Al Najei delivered another pass into space, sending Ronaldo one-on-one with goalkeeper Atiah. Ronaldo then secured the 2-0 lead, giving Garcia and his squad total control.

In the second half, a VAR review for a handball resulted in a penalty, giving Ronaldo the opportunity for his third goal, which he converted without mistake. To seal the match, Ronaldo added his fourth on another one-on-one opportunity against Atiah, scoring on his second attempt to make it 4-0 and complete a monumental performance in 61 minutes of play.

The race to 1,000 goals

Messi continues to close in on Ronaldo’s overall tally. The Portuguese forward currently sits at 978 career goals, while Messi’s four-goal outing brings him to 927 official goals in 1,170 matches. That leaves Messi just 73 goals shy of reaching the 1,000-goal mark that both legendary players share as a career target.

The opening goal originated from a cross by Telasco Segovia, with Casemiro—slotted in at center back for the match—rising above the defense to connect with a strong header.

Messi’s goal stemmed from a foul by Noah Streit on Ian Fray along the wing. Messi stepped up to take the set piece, sending a hybrid shot-cross into the center of the box that took a deflection off Luca Petrasso before finding the back of the net.

Lionel Messi’s fantastic brace

Messi added an incredible goal to complete his brace and extend Inter Miami’s lead. The star forward feinted past Montreal‘s entire defense before finishing phenomenally, recording his 97th career goal with Inter Miami.

Messi completes hat trick

Messi capped off a flawless performance by completing his hat trick in the 83rd minute. Following a steal and assist by Rodrigo De Paul that left him one-on-one with the goalkeeper, Messi delivered an exquisite chip shot over the keeper to find the net. Inter Miami closed out the match with a dominant 6-1 victory.

Messi caps off four-goal performance

Messi capped off an impressive outing to wrap up a match that ended in a 7-1 victory. Leo put the finishing touch on the night with a flourish, scoring an unstoppable free kick to close out the game.

With the strike, Messi reached 927 career goals as he continues to close in on the 1,000-goal milestone. He now sits just 73 goals away, a feat that looks increasingly attainable by the day given his ongoing form.

Impressive free-kick stat

In a remarkable stat, Lionel Messi has now scored more free-kick goals for Inter Miami (9) than penalty kicks (7) since joining the club, a stat that only increases the meaning of being one of the greatest players in soccer history.

Additionally, if the goal is credited to Messi rather than ruled an own goal due to the deflection, he officially passes Juninho Pernambucano (72) on the list of all-time free-kick goalscorers with 74.

Beyond Inter Miami confirming Hoyos’s departure and Cristian Gonzalez’s arrival, Hoyos has received an MLS suspension. MLS fined Hoyos undisclosed amounts and suspended him for one match due to the club’s repeated violation of the Late Kickoff Policy.

With the disciplinary action, it has now been confirmed that Hoyos will not be on the pitch or the bench with his team. However, he may not have been there regardless, as the Herons confirmed the hiring of a new coach, Gonzalez.

Why Hoyos was suspended

MLS confirmed that Miami breached the late kickoff policy during matches against Nashville on Aug. 15, Philadelphia Union on Aug. 19, and Toronto on Aug. 22.

Inter Miami are currently enduring a five-match winless streak, recording four losses and one draw across all competitions, including the Leagues Cup and the MLS regular season.

In MLS play, Inter Miami trail Eastern Conference leader Nashville SC by 10 points with 13 matches remaining until the end of the regular MLS season, and the squad needs to do it if they don’t want to end the campaign trophyless.

Hoyos took over the Miami bench in April after the sudden resignation of Javier Mascherano, who had guided the franchise to its first league title just months earlier.

The squad captained by Lionel Messi is navigating its toughest stretch of the season. First, Inter Miami suffered a 2-1 defeat to Monterrey and a 3-2 loss to Leon in the Leagues Cup, resulting in group-stage elimination. Returning to league play brought little relief, as the team earned just one point out of a possible nine, enduring a 4-1 loss to Nashville, a 2-1 defeat to Toronto, and a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union.

Meanwhile, Montreal come off a 2-2 home draw against the Los Angeles Galaxy in what has been a forgettable year that appears likely to end on a similar note. The Canadian club sits second-to-last in the Eastern Conference with 21 points and will look to pull off an upset against one of the league’s top rosters.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup

The string of negative results prompted management to replace Guillermo Hoyos, who will return to work with the club’s youth academy. However, today will not serve as Gonzalez’s debut on the bench. According to Jose Armando Rodriguez of Deporte Total, the squad will be missing Sergio Regulon, Lujan, Mateo Silvetti, Tadeo Allende, Micael, and Santiago Morales due to absences.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup: Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Casemiro, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen; Yannick Bright, Rodrigo De Paul, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and German Berterame.

Montreal confirmed lineup

The Canadian side enters the match on a positive run, carrying a four-game unbeaten streak into the contest. Its most recent result was a 2-2 draw against the LA Galaxy, and the squad will attempt to leverage its current momentum to surprise an Inter Miami team looking to restore confidence.

Montreal confirmed starting XI: Thomas Gillier; Dawid Bugaj, Jalen Neal, Brayan Vera, Luca Petrasso; Matthew Longstaff, Fabian Herbers, Samuel Piette; Hennadii Synchuk, Prince Osei Owusu y Noah Streit.

How to watch Inter Miami vs CF Montreal in the USA

The game can be accessed through the Apple TV app on supported devices or through the Apple TV website. The platform provides the MLS broadcast in multiple languages, including English and Spanish.

Can I watch Inter Miami vs CF Montreal for free?

Apple TV currently lists a seven-day free trial for new subscribers in the U.S., after which the regular subscription price is $12.99 per month.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Inter Miami enter this matchup with a clear objective: keep pace near the top of the Eastern Conference as the regular season moves into its decisive stretch. The Herons are coming off a 2-1 home loss to Toronto FC on August 22, a result that left them with 39 points and an 11-4-6 record.

Lionel Messi scored Miami’s only goal in that defeat, but the team missed an opportunity to strengthen its position in the conference race. The loss makes Saturday’s game particularly important, especially amidst significant managerial changes.

The club has officially announced Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez as the new head coach to replace interim manager Guillermo Hoyos, who had been leading the team since April. However, a fixed date for the coaching transition has not yet been set as Gonzalez awaits work visa approval.

While Hoyos has continued to direct training sessions and lead squad preparations, he will not be on the bench for today’s match. He received a one-game MLS suspension after the team was penalized for repeatedly delaying their return to the field.

Despite the temporary bench vacancy and recent managerial adjustments, the club have already demonstrated their ability to compete for the biggest prizes in MLS. Maintaining consistency will be crucial as they aim to remain among the Eastern Conference’s top contenders.

For CF Montreal, the challenge is to turn a recent improvement in form into points against one of the conference’s strongest teams. Montreal drew 2-2 with the LA Galaxy in their most recent league game, with Daniel Rios and Prince Owusu scoring for the Canadian side.

Inter Miami vs CF Montreal: Predicted Lineups

Inter Miami (4-3-3): Dayne St. Clair; Sergio Reguilon, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Ian Fray; Telasco Segovia, Casemiro, Rodrigo De Paul; German Berterame, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi.

CF Montreal (4-3-3): Thomas Gillier; Matteo Petrasso, Brayan Vera, Jalen Neal, Dawid Bugaj; Victor Loturi, Dani Pereira, Sean Longstaff; Daniel Rios, Prince Owusu, Noah Streit.

What time is the Inter Miami vs CF Montreal match?

The Inter Miami vs. CF Montreal match kicks off on Saturday, August 29, at 7:30 PM ET. The game will be played at Nu Stadium in Miami as part of the 2026 MLS regular season. For viewers across the United States, here are the local start times:

• Eastern Time: 7:30 PM
• Central Time: 6:30 PM
• Mountain Time: 5:30 PM
• Pacific Time: 4:30 PM

Lionel Messi is confirmed in the starting lineup, and Sanchez is available to get some minutes in the match as he is starting on the bench. The fixture reunites the pair after their successful stint in Spain, where they forged a strong partnership both on the pitch and in the locker room.

Messi will look to snap Inter Miami’s recent slide following the departure of assistant coach Guillermo Hoyos. The Herons are winless in their last five matches (0-4-1) since Messi’s return to the roster.

Meanwhile, Sanchez aims to maintain Montreal‘s momentum and solidify their playoff push. The Chilean star arrived this season looking to spearhead the club’s attack and make an immediate impact.

Confirmed lineups: Inter Miami vs CF Montreal

Inter Miami will be without Mateo Silvetti, Tadeo Allende, Santi Morales, and Micael due to injury. Montreal faces its own roster test, with Frankie Amaya, Wikelman Carmona, Bode Hidalgo, Efrain Morales, and Hennadii Synchuk all sidelined.

Here are the confirmed starting XIs for both clubs:

• Inter Miami confirmed XI:
  • GK: Dayne St. Clair
  • DEF: Ian Fray, Casemiro, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen
  • MID: Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia
  • FWD: Lionel Messi (C), Luis Suarez, German Berterame

• CF Montreal confirmed XI:
  • GK: Thomas Gillier
  • DEF: Dawid Bugaj, Jalen Neal, Brayan Vera, Luca Petrasso
  • MID: Matthew Longstaff, Fabian Herbers, Samuel Piette
  • FWD: Hennadii Synchuk, Prince Osei Owusu and Noah Streit

“Berterame is doing well,” Inter Miami’s statement read. “He was discharged from the hospital today and is returning home after spending the night under observation at Montreal General Hospital.

“He sustained injuries to his left shoulder and nose as a result of the hard blow he suffered during the match. He will begin the corresponding recovery process in the coming days under the supervision of the Club’s medical staff. His progress will determine the timeline for his return to physical activity.“

What happened to Berterame?

Challenging for a high ball near the 70th minute of the game, Berterame was hit from behind by CF Montreal defender Efrain Morales, whose header attempt caught the striker in the shoulder and the back of the head. Berterame landed headfirst on the pitch, which explains the nose injury, and appeared to lose consciousness.

Inter Miami’s medical staff came rushing onto the field as players from both sides reacted and helped the striker while the medics attended to him. Berterame had to be stretchered into an ambulance and was taken immediately to the nearest hospital to Montreal’s home stadium.

According to the club’s latest statement, Berterame is doing well and is out of danger. Still, the scary scenes in Quebec’s metropolis, combined with the fact that it was a head injury, mean the Herons must be patient and take every precaution before Berterame returns to action.

When does Inter Miami play next?

Inter Miami’s next game will be against Columbus Crew on August 1. The Herons will return home, hosting the visitors from Ohio at Nu Stadium. Inter Miami has won six games in a row, going back to May, and will look to make it seven straight against Columbus.

How to watch CF Montreal vs Inter Miami in the USA

Soccer fans won’t find this highly anticipated clash anywhere else, as Apple TV holds exclusive rights to broadcast the action live in its entirety.

The game will be available exclusively through Apple TV, delivering comprehensive live coverage from the opening kick through the closing moments.

Can I watch CF Montreal vs Inter Miami for free?

Viewers in the United States can stream the game live through Apple TV, which currently provides a complimentary 7-day trial for eligible new users.

With this promotion, fans can tune in and watch the action without paying upfront, then decide at the end of the trial period whether they would like to keep their subscription active.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Inter Miami enters this match on a high after a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Chicago Fire, a result that lifted the Herons to 34 points and within five of Eastern Conference leaders Nashville SC.

Even without Lionel Messi, Miami has remained one of the conference’s strongest teams and will be aiming to extend its winning run with another valuable three points.

CF Montreal, meanwhile, is looking to recover from a 1-0 loss to Nashville and keep its postseason hopes alive, sitting four points outside the Eastern Conference play-in spots heading into this important clash.

CF Montreal vs Inter Miami: Predicted Lineups

CF Montreal (4-3-3): Sébastian Breza; Dawid Bugaj, Jalen Neal, Efraín Morales, Luca Petrasso; Fabian Herbers, Samuel Piette, Matty Longstaff; Hennadii Synchuk, Prince Owusu, Noah Streit.

Inter Miami (4-3-3): Dayne St. Clair; Facundo Mura, Ian Fray, Micael dos Santos Silva, Sergio Reguilón; Dániel Pintér, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Mateo Silvetti, Germán Berterame, Luis Suárez.

What time is the CF Montreal vs Inter Miami match?

The match kicks off today, July 25, at 7:30 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 7:30 PM
Central Time: 6:30 PM
Mountain Time: 5:30 PM
Pacific Time: 4:30 PM

Messi and Rodrigo De Paul won’t be available for Inter Miami’s next two league matches and are also likely to skip the 2026 MLS All-Star Game as they complete their post-tournament rest period.

Messi has enjoyed another productive MLS campaign, registering 12 goals and eight assists in 14 appearances. His absence leaves Inter Miami without its leading scorer as the club looks to continue its strong run in the Eastern Conference.

Why is Lionel Messi unavailable today?

Messi’s absence isn’t related to an injury or disciplinary issue. Instead, it stems from the recovery period granted to players following major international tournaments.

Current agreements between FIFA and FIFPRO reportedly provide players with a minimum 21-day rest period after competitions such as the FIFA World Cup, allowing them time to recover before returning to club duties.

What does Messi’s absence mean for Inter Miami?

Without Messi, Inter Miami will once again rely on the rest of their attacking group to maintain its momentum in the Eastern Conference. The Herons have remained among the conference’s top teams this season and continue to chase first place. While Messi’s creativity and goal-scoring ability are difficult to replace, the club will look to stay on track until its captain is available to return.

How to watch CF Montreal vs Toronto FC in the USA

Apple TV will be the exclusive home for fans eager to watch this marquee showdown live from beginning to end.

This matchup will stream live only on Apple TV, where exclusive coverage brings every moment from kickoff to the final whistle.

Can I watch CF Montreal vs Toronto FC for free?

Viewers across the United States can watch this match live on Apple TV, which is offering a 7-day free trial for new subscribers.

The offer lets viewers enjoy the match at no initial cost before deciding whether to continue with a subscription after the free trial ends.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The playoff race heats up as two struggling Eastern Conference rivals square off in a matchup with major postseason implications.

CF Montréal and Toronto FC both enter the contest with 14 points, sitting four points behind the final Eastern Conference play-in spot, making this a must-win opportunity for each side.

With neither team able to afford dropping points against a direct competitor, expect both clubs to push for all three points in a game that could have a significant impact on the playoff race.

CF Montreal vs Toronto FC: Predicted Lineups

CF Montreal (4-3-3): Thomas Gillier; Dawid Bugaj, Efrain Morales, Brayan Vera, Luca Petrasso; Olger Escobar, Victor Loturi, Matthew Longstaff; Gennadiy Synchuk, Daniel Rios, Noah Streit.

Toronto FC (4-3-3): Luka Gavran; Jackson Gilman, Walker Zimmerman, Kobe Franklin, Nicksoen Gomis; Malik Henry, Markus Cimermancic, Alonso Coello; Daniel Salloi, Derrick Etienne Jr., Josh Sargent.

What time is the CF Montreal vs Toronto FC match?

The match kicks off today, July 16, at 7:30 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 7:30 PM
Central Time: 6:30 PM
Mountain Time: 5:30 PM
Pacific Time: 4:30 PM

[Watch CF Montreal vs Club Leon live in the USA on Apple TV]

The League Cup has kicked off, bringing together top teams from CONCACAF’s premier leagues for a fiercely competitive tournament where every match counts. Each squad will play three group-stage games to prove they belong in the knockout rounds.

Club Leon enter the competition struggling near the bottom of Liga MX with just one win and two losses, while CF Montreal find itself last in the MLS Eastern Conference. Despite their league struggles, both teams will aim to make a strong push in this competition.

When will the CF Montreal vs Club Leon match be played?

CF Montreal will face Club Leon this Tuesday, July 29, in a 2025 Leagues Cup, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 PM (ET).

CF Montreal vs Club Leon: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:00 PM
CT: 6:00 PM
MT: 5:00 PM
PT: 4:00 PM

How to watch CF Montreal vs Club Leon in the USA

Tune in to MLS League Pass on Apple TV to catch the 2025 Leagues Cup showdown between CF Montreal and Club Leon, live in the USA.