Lionel Messi moved one step closer to a historic milestone Saturday night, scoring the 899th goal of his career as Inter Miami CF defeated D.C. United 2–1 in front of more than 72,000 fans at M&T Bank Stadium.
The Argentine star now sits just one goal away from the 900-goal mark — a feat reached by only one other player, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Miami Takes Early Control
Inter Miami opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Rodrigo De Paul finished a well-built attack. Ten minutes later, Messi doubled the lead with a smooth left-footed strike after receiving a through ball from Mateo Silvetti.
The goal marked Messi’s third in two matches after a brace the previous week against Orlando City SC.
D.C. United Pushes Back
D.C. United increased pressure in the second half and cut the deficit in the 75th minute when Tai Baribo scored off a rebound. Despite the late push, Miami held on for the victory.
Head coach Javier Mascherano said his team controlled the first half but struggled under D.C.’s aggressive press after the break.
Milestone Within Reach
The win moves Inter Miami to 2-1-0 early in the season and keeps the team near the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
Messi could reach the historic 900-goal milestone as soon as Wednesday when Inter Miami faces Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
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