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Messi Nets 899th Goal in Record-Breaking Miami Win

3/8/2026

Summary

Messi Scores Again

Messi scored his 899th career goal as Inter Miami beat D.C. United 2-1 in Baltimore.
A record crowd of 72,026 attended the match at M&T Bank Stadium.
Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring in the 17th minute.
Tai Baribo scored D.C. United’s 75th-minute goal.
Inter Miami earned a second straight win after losing to LAFC and will face Nashville SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup on March 11.

Summary

Messi's Financial Impact

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas says Lionel Messi earns $70–$80 million annually, including equity.
Sponsorships account for 55% of Inter Miami's revenue, supporting high salaries.
Messi signed a three-year contract in 2025 and could become part-owner after retirement.
Inter Miami reached a $1.45 billion valuation in 2025 after a 22% rise, the Major League Soccer (MLS)'s most valuable team.
Mas notes Messi's on-field impact has improved the team's performance.

History

Historical Context

Major League Soccer (MLS) was established in 1993 as part of the U.S. bid to host the 1994 FIFA World Cup, marking a significant step in American soccer. Despite early struggles, the league's profitability improved after 2004, aided by soccer-specific stadiums and lucrative sponsorships. By 2025, Inter Miami's valuation reached $1.45 billion, reflecting soccer's growing commercial appeal in the U.S. sports landscape.

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Messi Scores Again

Messi scored his 899th career goal as Inter Miami beat D.C. United 2-1 in Baltimore.
A record crowd of 72,026 attended the match at M&T Bank Stadium.
Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring in the 17th minute.
Tai Baribo scored D.C. United’s 75th-minute goal.
Inter Miami earned a second straight win after losing to LAFC and will face Nashville SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup on March 11.

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