News Summary
Lionel Messi has been named the MLS Player of the Month, showcasing his phenomenal performance in October. With 10 goals in his last three matches, Messi led Inter Miami CF to a strong finish in the regular season. This marks his third Player of the Month award this season and his significant contributions earned him the MLS Golden Boot. As the team prepares for the playoffs against Nashville SC, Messi’s presence is crucial for their ambition to claim their first MLS Cup championship.
Miami, FL — Lionel Messi Named MLS Player of the Month for October 2025 and Prepares for Playoff Match
In Miami, Florida, Lionel Messi has been named Major League Soccer (MLS) Player of the Month for October 2025, highlighting his outstanding contribution as Inter Miami CF concluded the regular season. The Argentine superstar’s recent performances have solidified his position as a key figure in the league and set the stage for the upcoming playoff series.
Exceptional Performance in Final Matches
Messi’s performance during October was instrumental in securing a strong finish for Inter Miami. Over the last three regular-season matches, he scored a total of 10 goals, including 5 goals and 5 assists. His direct involvement in crucial plays led to the game-winning goal or assist in two of those matches, underscoring his influence on the team’s success.
Season Honors and Achievements
This achievement marks the third time Messi has earned the MLS Player of the Month honors in 2025, following similar recognitions in May and July. Additionally, his October performance awarded him the MLS Golden Boot, finishing the season with a total of 48 goal contributions—comprising 29 goals and 19 assists.
Messi’s 48 goal contributions represent the second-most in a single MLS season in league history. He is also the only player to record at least 36 goal contributions multiple times, achieving this feat in consecutive seasons—first in 2024 with 20 goals and 16 assists, and now in 2025.
Approaching MLS MVP and Playoff Contention
With his consistent performance, Messi is now aiming to secure back-to-back MVP awards, a feat not yet accomplished in MLS history. His presence on the field is widely regarded as a central factor in inter Miami’s overall success this season. The team’s management and players are hopeful that this momentum will carry into the playoffs.
Upcoming Playoff Series Against Nashville SC
Inter Miami will compete against Nashville SC in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs. The series begins on Friday at 8 p.m. ET at Chase Stadium, with the game set as part of a best-of-three series. Should the teams be tied after regulation in any match, the winner will be determined by a penalty shootout.
Miami finished the regular season in third place in the Eastern Conference, missing out on the Supporters’ Shield but determined to progress further in the postseason. Historically, the team has not advanced past the first round of playoffs, a record they are eager to improve this year.
Injury Update and Recent Form
Messi missed a recent training session due to minor back discomfort but is expected to rejoin training on Wednesday. This should enable him to be fully fit to participate in the upcoming playoff match. Recently, Messi scored a hat trick in the regular-season finale, a critical 5-2 victory over Nashville, further boosting confidence for the postseason.
Team Outlook and Future Opponent
After advancing past Nashville, Inter Miami would face the winner of the Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew matchup in the conference semifinals. All potential home playoff games, including the MLS Cup final scheduled for December 6, will be hosted at Chase Stadium. The team’s roster and coaching staff are emphasizing the importance of learning from past playoff disappointments and harnessing their current form.
League and Playoff Details
The playoff series can be watched on multiple platforms, including Apple TV, FS1, and FOX Deportes. Tickets for the playoff games are available through the official team channels. With high expectations for the team’s performance, Lionel Messi continues to be a focal point in the club’s pursuit of its first MLS Cup championship.
As the series kicks off this Friday, all eyes will be on Messi and Inter Miami as they aim to turn their regular-season success into a deep playoff run, with the goal of securing the club’s first MLS championship.
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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
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