Messi sets assist record as Miami defeats Atlanta United 3-1

Inter Miami outscored Atlanta United 3-1 on October 18, with Lionel Messi playing a pivotal role both in scoring and creating chances. The Argentine forward netted two goals and recorded a secondary assist, pushing his season assist total to a record‑breaking 15.

The contest started level, but Miami seized the advantage when Beteram headed in a perfect Suarez cross just before halftime, giving the visitors a 2-0 lead after Messi’s earlier free‑kick effort was saved.

Messi’s secondary assist on that header highlighted his playmaking prowess, making him the first player in MLS history to post at least 15 assists for three straight seasons.

The second half saw Messi add a further goal in the 56th minute after an incisive run down the right flank and a quick one‑two with Beteram. That marked his 24th league goal.

Only minutes later, Messi struck again, reaching 25 goals for the season and tightening his grip on the Golden Boot competition. Suarez supplied his 12th assist, cementing his place among Miami’s top contributors.

Atlanta managed a consolation penalty through Fafa Picault in the 89th minute, but the late strike did not alter the outcome. Inter Miami closed out the match with a 3-1 win.