Inter Miami was set to meet Toronto FC on match day 7 in the 2025 MLS season and wanted to bounce back after suffering its first loss of the year earlier this week. Just before halftime, team captain Lionel Messi delivered a moment of brilliance with a spectacular volley to level the points.
There had been uncertainty about Messi’s accessibility for the game, given his latest injuries and only three days of rest since the previous match. But against the odds, the Argentine star was named the starting lineup – and once again disappointed he did not.
In 45+5 minutes, Messi took control of a pass from Telrasco Segovia, quietly waging the ball down and released a powerful strike in the lower left corner past goalkeeper Sean Johnson. After receiving a goal that was not allowed in the 41st minute, the Argentine celebrated with visible relief.
Go zo de leo messi 💥🐐
Although he approached his 38th birthday, Messi continues to be dazzled as both a player and Inter Miami’s top score this season. His goal against Toronto marked his sixth in eight performances in all competitions in 2025.
A volley for the record books in MLS
Messi’s arrival at Major League Soccer has already transformed the league’s global profile, and his growing heritage continues to break new ground. Sunday’s goal set a milestone previously held by another Argentine striker.
Volley against Toronto officially made Messi the player with most target contributions in Inter Miami’s MLS history. The former Barcelona legend has counted 24 goals and 14 assists (44 g+a) on just 29 ml performances. It surpasses Gonzalo Higuain, who played 28 goals and 15 assists in 67 matches for the club.
*Development history …
