Inter Miami: Lionel Messi named Player of the Matchday | OneFootball

Player of the Matchday 17: Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi's latest GOAT-worthy performance has earned the Inter Miami CF superstar forward MLS Player of the Matchday presented by Michelob Ultra honors for Matchday 17.

Messi made it back-to-back Player of the Matchday awards thanks to a 2g/3a display that powered the Herons to a commanding 5-1 home win over the Columbus Crew.

The legendary Argentine No. 10 became just the second player in MLS history, along with Diego Rossi, to record multiple games with at least five goal contributions, following his 1g/5a effort in last season's 6-2 rout of the New York Red Bulls.

The reigning Landon Donovan MLS MVP is one of only three players in league history to score twice and log three assists in a single match.

Messi now leads MLS with 16 goal contributions (10g/6a) this season, including 5g/4a during Miami's current three-game unbeaten streak.

Messi is the first back-to-back Player of the Matchday winner this season and the second two-time recipient of 2025, along with Philadelphia Union striker Tai Baribo. This latest recognition marks his eighth award overall.

Up next for Messi and Miami is the FIFA 2025 Club World Cup, which the Herons will kick off on June 14 in the competition's opening match against Egyptian side Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium (8 pm ET | DAZN.com).

The MLS Player of the Matchday presented by Michelob Ultra is selected each matchday of the regular season through both media and fan voting in a process conducted by MLS Communications. A panel of journalists from the North American Soccer Reporters (NASR) comprises 75 percent of the vote, while an Instagram fan vote represents the remaining 25 percent of voting. NASR consists of members of print, television, radio, and online media.

Lionel Messi: FIVE goal contributions for Inter Miami