MLS
Messi-less Miami on pace to score a record number of points
After beating Chicago Fire, Inter Miami are on pace to break the record for most points in a MLS season.
Despite Lionel Messi being sidelined due to an injury sustained during the Copa América final, Inter Miami are not slowing down. The team is currently performing at a level that allows them to dream of setting a new record for the most points in an MLS season.
The Herons’ recent victory over the Chicago Fire brought Tata Martino’s squad to 59 points, putting them just 14 points shy of equaling the record for the most points in a single North American league campaign.
MLS Eastern Conference standings:
| Position | Team | Games played | Goal difference | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Inter Miami | 27 | +22 | 59 |
| 2 | FC Cincinnati | 27 | +12 | 51 |
| 3 | Columbus Crew | 25 | +28 | 49 |
| 4 | New York Red Bulls | 27 | +9 | 42 |
| 5 | New York City | 27 | +4 | 39 |
What is the all-time MLS points record?
However, this challenge won’t be easy for Martino and his team. With 21 points still up for grabs in the remaining seven games of the regular season, Miami needs to secure 14 points to match the New England Revolution’s record of 73 points, set in 2021.
Miami do have some margin for error, as they can afford to lose two games and still have a chance to win the Supporters’ Shield with a new MLS points record. By winning five of their remaining games, they would reach 74 points.
What’s left on Inter Miami’s Schedule?
Miami will not play any games during the FIFA international break, despite the MLS continuing its schedule. The Florida team is among the clubs that will not have matches during the September FIFA window.
Inter Miami will return to action on Saturday, September 14, when they face the Philadelphia Union, currently in tenth place in the Eastern Conference. On Wednesday, September 18, they will travel to play against Atlanta United.
On September 21, Miami will have another away match against New York City FC, and on September 28, they return home to face Charlotte FC. Then, on October 2, they face perhaps their toughest challenge of the season with an away game against Columbus.
Miami will conclude the season with an away game against Toronto on October 5 and will finally play at Chase Stadium against the New England Revolution before the start of the North American League Playoffs.