Lionel Messi earns MLS recognition after scoring vs LA Galaxy in return from injury

Inter Miami fans were eager to see Lionel Messi back on the field after he missed two games due to injury. The Argentine made his return in the MLS clash against LA Galaxy, where he scored a stunning goal that earned him league recognition.

On Wednesday, the official Major League Soccer website announced that Inter Miami’s captain was named the winner of the Matchday 29 Goal of the Week for his standout strike against LA Galaxy.

With the game tied and 7 minutes remaining, Messi received a pass from his compatriot Rodrigo De Paul, shrugged off two defenders, and unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box that left goalkeeper Novak Micovic with no chance.

That goal put Inter Miami ahead, and the team would later extend the lead to secure a 3-1 victory. The strike also brought Messi’s season total to 19 goals, making him the league’s top scorer and surpassing Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge, who has 18 goals.

Messi’s trophy cabinet with Inter Miami

Messi’s goal against LA Galaxy marked his sixth league recognition since joining Inter Miami in 2023. On the individual front, the former Barcelona star has collected numerous honors.

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He was named MLS MVP for the 2024 season, earned Player of the Month four times (twice in 2024 and twice in 2025), was included in the MLS Best XI for 2024, selected as an MLS All-Star in 2025 (though he opted not to participate), and was recognized as the Leagues Cup Best Player and Top Scorer in 2023.

On the team side, Messi played a key role in helping Inter Miami capture the club’s first-ever Leagues Cup in 2023. He also led the squad to the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the MLS team with the highest point total across both conferences during the regular season.

Messi’s stats in Miami

Since joining Inter Miami from PSG in July 2023, Messi has appeared in 71 matches across all competitions, tallying 59 goals and 29 assists, according to Transfermarkt.

The Inter Miami captain is enjoying a remarkable 2025 season, playing 32 matches across all competitions, scoring 25 goals and providing 11 assists. He also made history by becoming the first player in MLS history to score multiple goals in four consecutive matches, achieving five consecutive braces in the process.