Lionel Messi have written about countless records since he arrived at MLS, and this weekend offers another opportunity to etch its name deeper into From Miami history. When the hedges prepare to host Toronto, one of the league’s fights, Messi stands on the verge of surpassing a historical club record – currently held by one of his former Argentina teammates.
But as attractive as the milestone can be, the decision is whether he will even present this Sunday anything but simple.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano faces a tactical dilemma. With Concacaf Champions Cup Quarter Final Second Leg against LAFC On Wednesday, Mascherano has to decide how much he will play with his star man in Sunday’s regular season match.
Miami track 1-0 on aggregate After the first bone loss in Los Angeles. Given the rules of the tournament – where aggregated points and away goals determine who is moving forward – the Florida side must win by at least one goal without admitting to pushing the game to extra time. A 2-1 or higher score victory with a goal would see LAFC proceeding on the goals.
Mascherano has kept their cards near the chest regarding rotation, but It is expected that some important players will rest against Toronto. “We have to handle our squad carefully. Every minute is important when playing two must-win games in a few days,” The manager told the media.
A goal/assist from the story
Although the Argentine superstar is limited to replacement, the efforts at an individual level are monumental. IN Inter Miamis 2-1 victory over Philadelphia Union last weekMessi recorded his 23rd regular seasonal goalsWho led him level with club icon Gonzalo Higuain for most target contributions in Inter Miami history: A total of 43.
But the difference in how the two players reached the milestone is striking. While Higuain, a former Real Madrid and Juventus forward, is needed 67 games In order to achieve 43 target involvations, Messi has equalized the brand just 28 matches.
Higuain’s legacy and torch that pass
The record that the 37-year-old is now threatening to break off Gonzalo Higuainwho joined Inter Miami during his childhood in MLS. Despite a rocky start, Higuain led the team in points 2021 and 2022with 12 and 16 goals respectively. He also helped Miami reach Its first MLS Cup playoffs ever 2022 and retired as the club’s top scores all the time.
His connection to Messi extends beyond club football. The two shared pitch for Argentina in 75 international performancesIncluding major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and Copa America.
From now on, Messi is already the club’s assistant leader by 20 and is only seven goals away from breach of higuain Like Inter Miami’s leading goal scores all the time.
