Lionel Messi is making the World Cup conversation impossible to ignore once again. At 39 years old, the Argentina captain continues to decide matches with the kind of brilliance that defined his peak years at Barcelona. Inter Miami’s 2-0 victory over the Portland Timbers on Sunday was supposed to be a routine MLS fixture. Instead, it became another reminder that Messi remains one of football’s most dangerous players heading into the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Messi’s Staggering Numbers
The statistics already tell part of the story. Messi scored once, assisted another goal, and extended his astonishing career total to 910 goals and 412 assists for club and country. Even more striking is his recent form: he now has 10 goal contributions across his last four matches. However, numbers alone do not capture what unfolded at Chase Stadium. What truly lingered after the final whistle was one moment in the 42nd minute that instantly transported fans back in time.
A Jaw-Dropping Assist
Messi’s assist for Germán Berterame felt almost unfair. Surrounded by defenders in a crowded pocket near the edge of the box, he somehow found space where none appeared to exist. One quick touch shifted the balance. Another dragged two Portland defenders toward him. Then came the pass: soft, precise, and perfectly weighted into Berterame’s path for an easy finish inside the left post. It was the kind of sequence fans have watched for nearly two decades, but seeing it again at this stage of his career carried a different feeling. There was no rush in his movement, no panic either. Messi slowed the game down and controlled every inch of the moment before releasing the decisive ball.
Opening the Scoring
Messi had already opened the scoring in the 31st minute with his 13th goal of the season after combining neatly with Luis Suárez and Telasco Segovia. Portland goalkeeper James Pantemis had little chance from close range as Messi calmly buried the finish.
Red-Hot Form Gives Argentina Fresh Belief
For Argentina supporters, performances like this naturally raise one question: Can Messi produce one more unforgettable World Cup run? Right now, there is little sign of decline. His movement remains sharp, his passing vision untouched, and his decision-making perhaps even better than before. More importantly, he still controls matches emotionally and technically in ways very few players can.
Off-Field Protests
The night also carried extra noise around Inter Miami. The organized supporters group “La Familia” remained silent for most of the match in protest before finally breaking into chants late on.
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