Since landing in MLS, Lionel Messi has shattered season standards for Inter Miami. Could Nashville SC now eclipse his prized milestone?
On Matchday 33 of the 2026 MLS season, Nashville SC edged the New York Red Bulls 3–2 at GEODIS Park. The Boys in Gold had already secured the Supporters’ Shield and the Eastern Conference top seed, making the three points a historic footnote.
The victory pushed Nashville to 74 points, matching the all‑time MLS single‑season record set by Messi and Inter Miami during their landmark 2024 campaign.
Will Nashville clinch 75 points and stand alone in MLS history?
For my money, Nashville’s shot at sole ownership of the record hinges on braving a hostile road trip. Decision Day sends them to TQL Stadium to meet a desperate FC Cincinnati side fighting for a playoff spot.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami.
Cincinnati enter Matchday 34 sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference with 46 points. A win over Nashville would lock in a Round One berth and, if Philadelphia falters, could lift them to sixth.
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Conversely, a loss would hurt the hosts. Dropping points to Nashville while Columbus wins could push Cincinnati down to eighth or ninth, forcing a Wild Card play‑in. Nashville needs only a single point to reach 75 and claim solo history, so a hard‑fought draw might satisfy both clubs’ ambitions.