Messi claims second straight Golden Boot as Nashville sets points record on MLS Decision Day

Lionel Messi became the first player to win consecutive MLS Golden Boot awards, finishing the regular season with 26 goals. Inter Miami let a three-goal lead slip in a 3-3 draw with Charlotte, but kept second place in the Eastern Conference and secured home advantage for the first two playoff rounds.

Nashville set a new MLS single-season points record, ending with 77 after beating Cincinnati 2-0 and surpassing Miami’s previous record of 74. Miami finished on 60 points, ahead of New England on 58; the day’s results also settled the remaining playoff places, with Portland, Real Salt Lake and Seattle qualifying in the West.