Lionel Messi is approaching a historic milestone, now just one goal away from 900 career goals after scoring in Inter Miami CF’s 2–1 win over D.C. United on Saturday.
The 38-year-old Argentine captain scored Miami’s second goal midway through the first half at M&T Bank Stadium, bringing his career total to 899. This was his third goal in two matches, following a brace against Orlando City SC the previous weekend.
Since joining Inter Miami in June 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 80 goals for the club. Previously, Messi scored 672 goals for FC Barcelona, 32 for Paris Saint-Germain F.C., and 115 for the Argentina national team, the three-time world champions.
Messi could reach 900 career goals when Inter Miami face Nashville SC on March 11 in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Achieving this would place him alongside his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who reached the milestone in September 2024.
Despite a demanding travel schedule, including a White House visit earlier in the week, Messi and his teammates started strongly. Rodrigo De Paul scored in the 17th minute after contributions from Germán Berterame and Telasco Segovia. Ten minutes later, Messi doubled the lead with a left-footed finish following a precise pass from Mateo Silvetti.
D.C. United improved after halftime and reduced the deficit in the 75th minute when Tai Baribo scored on a rebound following an attempt by Jackson Hopkins.
Inter Miami secured the win, improving their record to 2–1–0 and moving into third place in the Eastern Conference. The team will continue away matches until their new home venue, Miami Freedom Park, opens on April 4 against Austin FC.
