By Peter Omopo
Argentine football icon Lionel Messi reached a historic milestone on Wednesday, scoring the 900th goal of his professional career, but his effort was not enough to keep Inter Miami in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Messi opened scoring just seven minutes into the second leg of their round of 16 clash against Nashville SC at Chase Stadium, giving the hosts an early advantage and raising hopes of progression.
However, Nashville responded in the 74th minute through Cristian Espinoza, leveling the tie. With the aggregate score ending 1-1, the American side advanced to the quarter-finals on the away goals rule, bringing Inter Miami’s campaign to an end.
The landmark goal adds to Messi’s remarkable scoring record across clubs and country. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, he has scored 81 goals, in addition to 672 for Barcelona, 32 for Paris Saint-Germain, and 115 for Argentina.
Messi’s journey to 900 goals began in 2005 when he scored his first senior goal for Barcelona at the age of 17 against Albacete. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he has established himself as one of football’s greatest players.
Despite the milestone, Messi still trails his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently has 965 career goals.
Ahead of the match, Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s achievement, describing the 900-goal mark as extraordinary and a testament to his unique talent and consistency.
Inter Miami’s elimination marks a disappointing end to their Champions Cup run, despite the historic moment for their star player.
