Lionel Messi is set to pursue even greater achievements in 2026. After leading Inter Miami to its inaugural MLS Cup title last season, the team will strive to defend its championship and secure additional accolades in its first year at the new Miami Freedom Park stadium. More significantly, Messi will also captain Argentina as they work to defend their FIFA World Cup title in North America, vying for the team’s second straight championship and fourth overall, in what could potentially be his final tournament.
The 38-year-old superstar continues to dazzle on the field for both club and country. ESPN will provide extensive coverage of his performances, offering match-by-match statistics and insights whenever he dons the Herons or Albiceleste jersey.
As of now, Messi’s performance this year includes:
- Games played: 10
- Goals: 7
- Assists: 1
April 4: Inter Miami 2-2 Austin FC
Messi opened his new stadium account in style, scoring his team’s only goal during the inaugural match at Miami Freedom Park. The Argentine maestro began the play with a signature left-footed pass to a teammate, then deftly maneuvered past defenders before heading the ball past goalkeeper Brad Stuber.
March 31: Argentina 5-0 Zambia
In what could be one of his final appearances for the national team, Messi helped Argentina secure a decisive 5-0 victory over Zambia. He netted his side’s second goal, while the focus now shifts to Miami as preparations intensify for the upcoming World Cup.
March 27: Argentina 2-1 Mauritania
Messi made his 2026 debut in a tightly contested match against Mauritania, appearing only in the second half. Argentina emerged victorious with a 2-1 win at the iconic La Bombonera in Buenos Aires as they gear up to defend their title in the summer.
March 22: NYCFC 2-3 Inter Miami
In a thrilling encounter against NYCFC, Messi’s second-half goal secured a 3-2 victory for Inter Miami. The Argentine star’s remarkable free-kick effort brought him closer to the illustrious milestone of 1,000 career goals, leaving him just 99 away.
March 18: Inter Miami 1-1 Nashville SC
Messi recently made history by becoming the second male player to reach 900 career goals, although his achievement was bittersweet as Inter Miami was eliminated from the Concacaf Champions Cup. He scored in the seventh minute, but his shot was deflected, leading to a disappointing draw that ended the Herons’ tournament hopes.
March 11: Nashville SC 0-0 Inter Miami
In a lackluster outing during the Concacaf Champions Cup, Messi and Inter Miami struggled to convert their possession into goals, resulting in a frustrating goalless draw. They headed back to Chase Stadium knowing that a win was crucial to advancing.
March 7: DC United 1-2 Inter Miami
After an eventful week that included a visit to the White House, Messi propelled Inter Miami to a 2-1 victory against D.C. United. He scored the team’s second goal, putting him just one milestone away from 900 career goals, sparking hopes for further achievements this season.
March 1: Orlando City 2-4 Inter Miami
Messi delivered a rejuvenating performance against Orlando City, scoring two goals and providing an assist after a rocky start that saw his team trailing 2-0 at halftime. This remarkable comeback not only secured Miami’s first points of the season but also showcased Messi’s enduring talent.
February 21: LAFC 3-0 Inter Miami
In the opening match of the season, Inter Miami faced a tough loss against LAFC. Despite entering the game with high expectations, they succumbed to a dominant performance by the hosts. However, controversy erupted post-game over an incident involving Messi reportedly entering the officials’ locker room, which was later clarified not to violate any league rules.
