Argentine football great Lionel Messi scored twice within a few minutes to help Inter Miami defeat Atlanta United 3-1 in Major League Soccer (MLS).

The game, which took place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Atlanta Stadium, saw the 39-year-old steal the show with his magical skills.

German Berterame opened the scoring in the 45th minute to give the visitors the lead.

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Messi doubled Inter Miami’s advantage in the 56th minute after receiving a pass from Berterame. The superstar weaved his way through the Atlanta defence with his brilliant dribbling skills before unleashing a left-footed shot into the net.

The Argentine maintained his momentum, latching onto a pass from Luis Suárez before going past Junior Alonso to score his second goal of the game four minutes later and extend Miami’s lead.

A late penalty converted by Fafa Picault gave Atlanta United a consolation goal as the match ended 3-1 in Inter Miami’s favour.

Messi also set a record as the first player in MLS history to record at least 15 assists in three consecutive seasons.

He now has four goals in three matches since his emotional Argentina send-off.

Inter Miami, which clinched a playoff berth on Wednesday, secured its third consecutive victory under Cristian “Kily” González, who took over as head coach last month.

Messi recently brought his international career with Argentina to an end while continuing to play at club level.

SB

Watch the videos below:

Messi on the break 1v1? Good luck.

Leo has his brace. 🇦🇷 https://t.co/CoI15KzLpw

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 18, 2026

messi is a liar, he told the whole world his legs could no longer give him anymore but look at this brace?!

😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 https://t.co/V8sapbyUlB

— 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐄𝐒 (@chaaliiykay) October 18, 2026