Messi reaches 900 goals as Inter Miami exit from CONCACAF Champions Cup
Lionel Messi scored the 900th goal of his extraordinary career on Wednesday, yet Inter Miami could not prevent a heartbreaking exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup. After a 1-1 draw with Nashville SC, Miami fell on away goals and bowed out of the last-16 stage.
The milestone goal came just seven minutes into the match, giving the home side a dream start in what was Inter Miami’s farewell to their Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. Despite Messi’s opener, Nashville’s Cristian Espinoza struck in the 74th minute to level the aggregate score, and the visitors held on to progress.
A career milestone 21 years in the making
Messi’s 900th goal caps a remarkable journey that began in 2005 when the 17-year-old scored for Barcelona against Albacete. His tally now spans multiple clubs and international duty:
- Barcelona: 672 goals in 778 games
- Paris Saint-Germain: 32 goals in 75 games
- Inter Miami: 81 goals in 96 games
- Argentina: 115 goals in 196 appearances
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains second only to Cristiano Ronaldo, who sits on 965 career goals. Brazilian legend Pelé’s disputed total is widely estimated at 762 goals by statisticians.
Mascherano hails Messi’s achievements
Speaking before the match, Inter Miami manager and former teammate Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s unprecedented consistency.
“The number we’re talking about (900) is insane, and that’s why Leo is one of a kind,” Mascherano said. “I’ve been lucky enough to see many of his goals up close, it’s a privilege.”
Farewell to Chase Stadium
Wednesday’s match carried extra significance as Inter Miami bid farewell to their Chase Stadium home. The team will move to a new, purpose-built 26,700-seat stadium next month, marking the end of an era in Florida.
Messi’s impact in the MLS
Since arriving in Miami in 2023, Messi has been pivotal: winning the 2023 Leagues Cup, the 2025 MLS Cup, and adding 81 goals in just 96 appearances. His trademark scoring ability, vision, and leadership continue to make him the central figure of Inter Miami’s rise in Major League Soccer.
Looking ahead
Messi is expected to feature in his sixth World Cup later this year, as Argentina defend their title in the expanded 48-team tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He has already extended his Inter Miami contract through 2028, signaling his ongoing commitment to the club and MLS.
A night of bittersweet celebration
Although Inter Miami’s CONCACAF campaign ended prematurely, Messi’s 900th career goal offered fans a rare moment of joy. The milestone is a testament to one of football’s most prolific and enduring careers, with Messi continuing to redefine what it means to excel at the highest level for over two decades.
SportsLigue
