Messi Breaks MLS Record as Inter Miami Defeats Nashville

According to ESPN, Lionel Messi continued his MLS dominance by scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Nashville SC — setting a league record with five consecutive matches scoring braces.

Inter Miami — with three games still in hand — is now riding a five-game winning streak. Their latest victory came after Nashville’s costly mistake — goalkeeper Joe Willis passed directly to Messi who converted it into the winning goal.

Philadelphia Union took over the Supporters’ Shield lead after defeating New York Red Bulls 2-0. Meanwhile, San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer remains in tight competition with Messi for the MVP title — the 27-year-old Dane has accumulated:

• 11 goals
• 13 assists
• 22 appearances

Columbus Crew showed championship mentality by recovering from a 0-2 deficit to defeat FC Cincinnati 4-2 in the Hell is Real derby. Diego Rossi scored the comeback opener before Max Arfsten equalized in the first half.