Lionel Messi added another chapter to his storied MLS career on Sunday night, scoring his 101st goal for Inter Miami in a 2-2 draw against San Diego FC at Nu Stadium. The Argentine's trademark free kick in the 24th minute was his 20th league goal of the season, and it came just four days after he reached the century mark in a 2-0 win over Cruz Azul in regional play.
A free kick for the ages
Messi's goal was a thing of beauty. From the right flank, he curled a left-footed strike that sailed through a crowded box and nestled into the far corner. It was a moment that reminded everyone why he's considered the greatest of all time, and it gave Inter Miami an early lead after San Diego had struck first in the 12th minute through Anders Dreyer.
Dreyer had opened the scoring with a delicate chip over goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, but Messi's response was swift and emphatic. The goal was his 101st in an Inter Miami shirt, a number that once seemed unthinkable when he arrived in South Florida in 2023.
Late drama and a share of the spoils
The match had more twists to come. Luis Suárez, Messi's longtime friend and former Barcelona teammate, appeared to have secured all three points with a goal in the 74th minute. But Dreyer struck again eight minutes later to complete his brace and force a draw in front of a capacity crowd.
The result extends Inter Miami's run of consecutive draws to four, leaving them with a regular-season record of 12 wins, 4 draws, and 10 losses for 46 points in the Eastern Conference. It's a solid position, but the team will be eager to turn those ties into wins as the playoffs approach.
Off the pitch: FIFA announcement and upcoming fixtures
During halftime, FIFA announced that Nu Stadium will host the final stages of the 2027 FIFA Women's Champions Cup, adding to the venue's growing reputation as a premier soccer destination. For Inter Miami, the focus now shifts to their next league match against the Columbus Crew next Sunday.
Messi's milestone is the latest in a series of achievements that have defined his time in MLS. His impact extends beyond the pitch, drawing global attention to the league and to South Florida's vibrant Latino community. As his relationship with MLS leadership continues to make headlines, his on-field brilliance remains the constant.
For fans in Miami, the draw was a bittersweet result, but the sight of Messi curling in another free kick was a reminder of the magic he brings to every match. As the season progresses, Inter Miami will look to build on their points tally and secure a strong playoff position, with Messi leading the charge.
