Soccer

Lionel Messi hat-trick helps Inter Miami sweep past New England Revolution

The Argentinian found the back of the net in the 78th, 81st and 89th minute.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi reacts after scoring a goal during the second half of an MLS soccer match against the New England Revolution (Lynne Sladky/AP)
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi reacts after scoring a goal during the second half of an MLS soccer match against the New England Revolution (Lynne Sladky/AP) (Lynne Sladky/AP)
By PA Sport Staff

Lionel Messi scored three goals in 12 minutes during a 6-2 demolition of New England Revolution as Inter Miami broke Major League Soccer’s single-season points record.

The Argentinian found the back of the net in the 78th, 81st and 89th minutes, putting a bow on Inter Miami’s 22nd win of the season.

The Herons also tallied four losses and eight draws to finish with a record 74 points.

Having already clinched the top play-off spot, the points record was the only target left for Inter Miami, but it looked in jeopardy early as New England took a 2-0 lead.

That advantage was erased on the edge of half-time thanks to a quickfire double from Luis Suarez.

Messi had an immediate impact when he entered the game in the second half, setting up Benjamin Cremaschi to put Miami ahead in the 58th minute before sealing the victory with his late flurry of goals.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced on Saturday night that Inter Miami will play in the 2025 Club World Cup, which is scheduled to get underway in Miami on June 15.