After a four-match winless streak, Inter Miami bounced back with a commanding victory over Montreal CF, thanks to standout performances from Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Each player netted two goals, with Messi achieving a significant milestone in the process.
The Argentine superstar became the first player in Inter Miami history to record 50 goal contributions in a calendar year. Over the past 12 months, Messi has tallied 29 goals and 21 assists, setting an unprecedented benchmark for the club. So far this season, Messi has scored 13 goals and provided four assists in 20 matches, reaffirming his role as the team’s driving force.
With this win, Inter Miami moved to sixth in the standings with 26 points, setting their sights on Columbus Crew in their final MLS match before embarking on their campaign in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Inter Miami has been placed in Group A of the FIFA Club World Cup, alongside Palmeiras, Porto, and Al Ahly. Messi and his team will kick off the tournament against the Egyptian side on June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates with Luis Suarez after scoring his team’s fourth goal of the game. (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
Mascherano praises Messi’s greatness
Following the match, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano didn’t hold back his praise for Messi after the Argentine captain achieved yet another milestone. Mascherano highlighted how Messi’s brilliance often feels effortless.
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“Leo Messi is a player who has spoiled us to the point where everything he does seems easy, even at this stage of his career,” Mascherano said. “What stands out even more to me is his desire to play—the way he inspires, how he competes. He sets the example we all need to follow. He shows us the path to success. As for his soccer, there’s simply nothing left to say—it’s unmatched”.
Suarez draws Mascherano’s praise
Luis Suarez also received recognition for his performance after breaking a 180-minute scoring drought. The Uruguayan’s brace marked his seventh goal of the season, a timely resurgence as Inter Miami gears up for the Club World Cup.
“I’m thrilled for Suarez,” the Argentine coach said. “For a player who’s scored so many goals in his career, going a few games without finding the net must feel strange, even for him. But his effort, determination, and refusal to give up are contagious. That kind of attitude is invaluable to the team”.
