Inter Miami's Lionel Messi named Player of the Matchday

Lionel Messi's impressive display that helped Inter Miami CF secure the Supporters' Shield has earned him the title of Player of the Matchday, sponsored by Michelob Ultra, for Matchday 36.

Messi showcased his talent by scoring two impressive goals, helping Miami secure the Shield for the very first time in the club's history following their 3-2 victory against Columbus Crew on Wednesday.

With this recognition, the Herons earned the top position in the Eastern Conference and ensured home-field advantage for the upcoming Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs, culminating in the MLS Cup presented by Audi on December 7. They will also take part in next year's Concacaf Champions Cup, making it their second consecutive appearance in this continental competition.

Messi has made a total of 32 contributions to goals this season, with 17 goals and 15 assists, placing him in second place behind Evander, a midfielder for the Portland Timbers, who has 33 contributions. Additionally, when it comes to scoring efficiency, Messi leads the league in goals per 90 minutes, averaging 1.01 goals for every 90 minutes played, among players who have scored at least five goals this season.

Messi has earned his fifth Player of the Matchday award for the 2024 MLS season after winning it in Matchdays 9, 11, 12, and 32. He is now one of only five players in MLS history to receive this honor five or more times in a single season. The others include Carlos Vela, who claimed it six times in 2019, Thierry Henry with five in 2012, Jason Kreis who had six in 1999, and Cobi Jones with five in 1998.

On Saturday, Miami will face off against Toronto FC in their pursuit of the MLS single-season points record, with only two matches left to play (4 pm ET | MLS Season Pass).

The MLS Player of the Matchday, sponsored by Michelob Ultra, is chosen on every regular season matchday through voting from both media and fans, organized by MLS Communications. A group of journalists from the North American Soccer Reporters (NASR) accounts for 75% of the total vote, while the fan voting on X (previously Twitter) makes up the other 25%. NASR includes members from various media outlets, including print, television, radio, and online platforms.