Lionel Messi proved age is just a number by scoring four goals, including two stunning free-kicks, as Inter Miami demolished CF Montreal 7-1 in an MLS thriller.
- Lionel Messi scored a 'poker' (4 goals) in Inter Miami's dominant 7-1 victory.
- The performance included two spectacular direct free-kick goals.
- Messi reached a career milestone of 927 professional goals.
- The win highlights Messi's continued dominance in the MLS.
The legendary Lionel Messi has once again defied the laws of aging. At 39 years old, the Argentine maestro delivered a sensational second-half masterclass, netting four goals to propel Inter Miami to a crushing 7-1 victory against CF Montreal in the MLS. The night belonged to one man, as he rolled back the years with a scoring spree that left the opposition helpless.
The onslaught began after Casemiro opened the scoring for Miami in the 20th minute. Messi broke the deadlock in the 40th minute with a pinpoint free-kick to make it 1-1. He wasn't done; the reigning Golden Boot winner added a third in the 52nd minute, and then proceeded to dismantle the Montreal defense in the dying stages of the game with two more goals, including another clinical free-kick in stoppage time.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Messi's ability to maintain peak physical conditioning and tactical intelligence at 39 is unprecedented in modern football. His performance doesn't just secure points for Miami; it elevates the entire profile of Major League Soccer on the global stage.
Beyond the goals, the statistical milestones are staggering. This marked Messi's 62nd professional hat-trick and his 9th time scoring four or more goals in a single match. His professional tally now stands at a monumental 927 goals.
Messi's ability to execute high-pressure free-kicks with such precision at his age is nothing short of legendary.
The victory was a collective effort, with Luis Suárez adding an 11th goal assisted by Messi, and 18-year-old rookie Alexander Shaw scoring his first professional goal to make it 6-1. The dominance of Miami was absolute from start to finish.
All-Time Free-Kick Rankings
| Player | Direct Free Kick Goals | Games Played |
|---|---|---|
| Marcelinho | 78 | 782 |
| Lionel Messi | 74 | 1171 |
| Roberto Dinamite | 74 | 850 |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 64 | 1333 |
This performance comes during an incredibly emotional period for the talisman. Following the recent loss of his father, Jorge, in Rosario, Messi had expressed deep vulnerability regarding his future in football. This match, however, served as a powerful testament to his resilience and passion for the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many goals did Messi score in the match?
Messi scored four goals, including two direct free-kicks.
2. What was the final score of the Inter Miami vs Montreal game?
Inter Miami won the match with a decisive 7-1 scoreline.