Messi Leads Inter Miami Into MLS Playoffs After Historic Golden Boot Win
Lionel Messi has added another accolade to his impressive career, becoming the first player to win the MLS Golden Boot in consecutive seasons. As he and Inter Miami prepare to defend their MLS Cup title, they face a challenging first-round matchup against Columbus Crew in the upcoming playoffs.
Messi’s Dominance Continues as Miami Prepares
At 39, Messi showed no signs of slowing down this season, finishing the 2026 regular season with 26 goals and 17 assists—leading the league with a total of 43 goal contributions. This achievement solidifies his status as a top contender for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award, adding to his wins in 2024 and 2025.
Inter Miami concluded the regular season in second place in the Eastern Conference with 60 points, securing a postseason berth but trailing behind Nashville SC, which racked up a record-breaking 77 points, surpassing Miami’s previous record from 2024.
Despite the strong finish, Miami’s recent performance provides cautious optimism. They allowed a three-goal halftime lead to slip away in their final match, resulting in a 3-3 draw against Charlotte FC.
First Test Against Columbus Crew
Miami kicks off their playoff run against seventh-seeded Columbus Crew in a best-of-three series. The first game is scheduled for Saturday, November 21, at 6 p.m. ET at Nu Stadium. The second game will take place in Columbus on Friday, November 27, at 8 p.m. ET, with a potential third game in Miami on December 2, if necessary.
Columbus should not be underestimated, having won eight of their last nine matches leading into the playoffs, which gives them a significant momentum advantage heading into this matchup. Although Miami enjoys home-field advantage in the initial game and any possible deciding game, they will need to perform at their best to progress.
Pursuing Another Championship
If Messi and Inter Miami advance, they might face a formidable opponent in Nashville SC during the Eastern Conference semifinals. Nashville will first take on the winner of the Wild Card match between Orlando City and FC Cincinnati. Given their record-setting season, Nashville represents a formidable challenge for Miami.
The conference semifinals are scheduled for December 5-6, followed by the conference finals on December 11-12, culminating with the MLS Cup on December 18.
Inter Miami aims for a significant milestone; no team has defended the MLS Cup successfully since the LA Galaxy did so in 2011 and 2012. Messi has already left an indelible mark on the club by leading them to their inaugural MLS Cup victory last season. Now, he is determined to secure a second consecutive championship.
With the Golden Boot already in hand and the MVP award potentially on the horizon, all eyes will be on Messi as his team embarks on the playoff journey, starting with a critical game against a Columbus Crew side that is hitting its stride at the right moment.
