Lionel Messi has become the first player in Major League Soccer history to win the Golden Boot in consecutive seasons, but Inter Miami surrendered a three-goal lead in a dramatic 3-3 draw against Charlotte on Saturday.

The Argentine superstar finished the 2026 regular season with 26 goals, four ahead of his closest challenger, FC Dallas striker Petar Musa, who scored 22.

Although Messi failed to find the net in Miami’s final regular-season match, he provided two assists as the defending MLS champions raced into a commanding first-half lead at Nu Stadium.

Ian Fray opened the scoring in the 14th minute after a Messi corner caused confusion in Charlotte’s defence.

Luis Suarez doubled the advantage in the 33rd minute, heading home another corner from the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Rodrigo De Paul added a third before half-time, putting Miami firmly in control.

However, Charlotte staged a remarkable second-half comeback.

Liel Abada scored twice, including a 55th-minute strike, before Rodolfo Aloko completed the recovery with a 90th-minute equaliser.

Messi almost restored Miami’s lead in stoppage time, but his effort struck the post.

Despite the disappointing result, Miami finished second in the Eastern Conference with 60 points, securing home advantage for the opening two rounds of the playoffs.

They will face Columbus in their opening postseason fixture.

Meanwhile, Nashville produced another historic moment by breaking the MLS record for the highest points total in a regular season.

Nashville defeated Cincinnati 2-0 to finish with 77 points, surpassing the previous record of 74 established by Inter Miami in 2024.

The victory also secured Nashville first place in the Eastern Conference, ahead of Miami and New England.

New England finished third with 58 points after suffering a surprise 1-0 defeat against Orlando.

In the Western Conference, Vancouver defeated Montreal 2-0 to finish second in the overall standings.

Portland, Seattle and Real Salt Lake also secured postseason places following a tense final round of matches.

For Messi, the latest Golden Boot adds another individual distinction to his illustrious