Lionel Messi Scores Hat Trick in Inter Miami's Dominant 7-1 MLS Victory

Lionel Messi delivered a legendary performance on Saturday night, scoring three goals and assisting another in Inter Miami's resounding 7-1 victory over CF Montreal in Major League Soccer. The Argentine superstar's spectacular display began after Miami took a 2-1 lead just before halftime. Messi first scored from a free kick that deflected into the net, then completed his brace with an impressive individual effort in the 52nd minute. He later assisted Luis Suarez for the team's fourth goal before sealing his hat trick with Miami's seventh goal in second-half stoppage time. This marked the highest number of goals Miami has scored in a single game.

At 39 years old, Messi now leads the MLS with 18 goals in 19 appearances this season, two goals ahead of his closest competitor. He also became the fastest player in league history to reach 20 games with at least two goals, achieving this milestone in just 72 appearances. "This is what it means when you have Messi on the team," said teammate Casemiro after the match. "We need to enjoy these moments because he is a player who makes history. He continues to be the best."

The win was Inter Miami's first in league play since July 25, ending a five-game winless streak across all competitions. The team remains in second place in the Eastern Conference, ten points behind league leaders Nashville SC.

In another MLS match, Israeli players Liel Abada and Idan Toklomati both scored in Charlotte FC's 2-0 win against Atlanta United. Toklomati opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, and Abada added the second goal in the 48th minute. This victory propelled Charlotte FC to fourth place in the Eastern Conference with 35 points, two points behind third-place Chicago.