Lionel Messi set a new Major League Soccer single-season scoring record on May 9, 2026, netting his 30th goal of the campaign in Inter Miami's 3-1 victory over Toronto FC at DRV PNK Stadium. The Argentine superstar surpassed the previous record of 29 goals, set by Carlos Vela in 2019 for LAFC.
Messi's historic goal came in the 67th minute, a left-footed strike from outside the box that curled into the top corner. The goal was assisted by Sergio Busquets, marking their 12th combined goal this season. Inter Miami improved to 12-3-2 with the win, sitting atop the Eastern Conference.
According to MLS statistics, Messi has also contributed 12 assists in 17 appearances this season, making him the league leader in both goals and assists. The 38-year-old has now scored 30 goals in 22 MLS matches since joining Inter Miami in July 2023.
Toronto FC, who entered the match with a 5-8-4 record, took an early lead through a Federico Bernardeschi penalty in the 12th minute. Inter Miami equalized through a Jordi Alba header in the 35th minute before Messi's record-breaking strike and a late goal from Leonardo Campana sealed the win.
