News Summary
Lionel Messi has been named MLS Player of the Month for his outstanding performance in October. He scored 10 goals and provided 5 assists in the final matches of the regular season, solidifying Inter Miami’s playoff position. This recognition marks Messi’s third Player of the Month title for the season, contributing to his impressive goal tally of 29 goals and 19 assists overall. With playoffs approaching, Inter Miami aims to overcome past disappointments and pursue the MLS Cup, with Messi playing a crucial role in the team’s ambitions.
Miami — Lionel Messi has been awarded the MLS Player of the Month for October 2025 following an impressive finish to the regular season with Inter Miami CF. Messi’s remarkable performance included a tally of 10 goals—comprising 5 goals and 5 assists—during the team’s final three matches, significantly contributing to Miami’s strong position heading into the playoffs.
Messi was directly involved in of the game-winning goal or assist in two of these final matches. This accolade marks Messi’s third Player of the Month honor for the 2025 season, having previously won the award in May and July. His October achievements played a vital role in earning him the MLS Golden Boot, concluding the season with an impressive 48 goal contributions, including 29 goals and 19 assists. This figure is notable as it ranks as the second-highest in a single season in MLS history.
Furthermore, Messi is recognized as the only player in MLS history to have recorded at least 36 goal contributions in a season multiple times, having done so previously in the 2024 season with 20 goals and 16 assists. With his sights now set on becoming the first player to win back-to-back MVP awards in MLS history, Messi’s focus remains sharp as the playoffs approach.
Inter Miami is set to face off against Nashville SC in the Round One Best-of-3 Series of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. The first match is scheduled for Friday at 8 pm ET at Chase Stadium. While Messi experienced minor back discomfort that caused him to miss a training session, he is anticipated to return to form by Wednesday, ensuring he will be fit for the playoff match.
In their regular-season finale, Messi scored a critical hat trick, leading Inter Miami to a commanding 5-2 victory over Nashville. Despite Inter Miami’s strong showing last season, where they finished first in the regular season, they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. This year has seen a different trajectory, as the team finished third in the Eastern Conference and did not defend their title for the Supporters’ Shield.
Historically, Inter Miami has not advanced beyond the first round of the playoffs, and the players are motivated to change this narrative and build upon past disappointments. The team finished the regular season leading the league with a total of 81 goals but also incurred 55 goals against, reflecting some defensive weaknesses that could impact their playoff strategy.
The playoff series against Nashville will follow a best-of-three format. If any match ends in a tie after regulation, a penalty shootout will determine the winner. Should Miami advance, they will face the victor of the Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew match in the conference semifinal.
All potential home playoff games for Inter Miami, including the possible matches in the MLS Cup championship scheduled for December 6, will occur at Chase Stadium. The team has set high expectations for clinching the MLS Cup, with players acknowledging Messi’s significant role in their achievements and aspirations.
The opening match against Nashville kicks off Friday at 8 p.m. ET and will be available for viewing on Apple TV, FS1, and FOX Deportes. Tickets for the playoff matches can be purchased through the official Inter Miami website.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Portland Timbers Celebrate 50th Anniversary with Historic Tifo
Charlotte Set to Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game
Additional Resources
- Miami Herald: Lionel Messi Recognized as MLS Player of the Month
- Inter Miami CF: Messi Named MLS Player of the Matchday
- MLS Soccer: Messi Named Player of the Matchday
- Wikipedia: Lionel Messi
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lionel Messi
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
