TThe 2025 MLS regular season is almost over, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi, who has the potential to become the tournament’s top scorer. The Argentine star has had a fantastic season with Inter Miami, scoring 24 goals and sharing the top scorer list with Los Angeles FC striker Dennis Bouanga.
With one game remaining, the world champions have one last chance to win the coveted Golden Boot in the National League.
Luis Surez and Matteo Messi share a secret handshake
Messi, Bouanga and Surridge: a three-way battle for the title of top scorer
The battle for the top spot in the scoring rankings is not just between Messi and Buanga. Nashville SC forward Sam Surridge from England also entered the fray, coming dangerously close to the lead with back-to-back points. The final match will feature a head-to-head showdown between Inter Miami and Nashville SC, so it’s possible that the new MLS goal-scoring champion will be determined in this head-to-head match.
Messi misses penultimate match due to FIFA schedule
Before the final match, Messi was called up to the Argentina national team to play in an international friendly, forcing him to miss the match against Atlanta United. This absence prevented him from adding a late goal, leaving everything to the final game against Nashville SC. We need to score there and I hope Bouanga doesn’t add more points against the Colorado Rapids.
What does it take for Messi to win the Golden Boot award?
To win the 2025 MLS Golden Boot, Messi must score at least one goal in the final match, and we hope Buanga doesn’t score against Colorado. If the two teams are tied for goals, the tiebreaker will be determined by assists, and the Argentine has also posted good numbers. But competition is fierce and any goal can tip the balance.
A record-setting season finale
Beyond the Golden Boot, Messi is also close to breaking other personal records in MLS. His goals per game average could surpass Carlos Vela’s historic 2019 season, making him the player with the most goals and assists in a single season. These individual accomplishments further contributed to a campaign that ensured Inter Miami a place in the playoffs, despite ups and downs in the team’s overall performance.
Looking forward to the final match against Nashville SC
The duel against Nashville SC will not only decide Inter Miami’s future in the postseason, but will also be key for Messi to close out the regular season with a memorable performance. Chase Stadium is preparing to welcome thousands of fans hoping to see the Argentine shine once again and perhaps become the top scorer of the 2025 MLS season.
