Lionel Messi is preparing for a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance, but the player heading to the tournament is unrecognizable from the teenager who first burst onto the scene. While most elite stars adapt to decline, the Inter Miami talisman has spent two decades adapting to stay ahead of the game.
Phil Neville has left the Portland Timbers by mutual consent after a poor run of MLS results. The former Manchester United defender departs with the club sitting third from bottom in the Western Conference and eight points adrift of the automatic play-off spots.
Lionel Messi and Co. remain favorites, but strong starts from Nashville, San Jose and Vancouver have the league nicely poised heading into a long break.
Lionel Messi was caught on camera appearing to scold Inter Miami supporters after the club’s hardcore fans staged a silent protest during their MLS victory over the Portland Timbers. The Argentine icon was seen gesturing toward the stands as the atmosphere turned sour despite lofty expectations at the Nu Stadium.
Lionel Messi scored and assisted in the first half, and Inter Miami kept a valuable clean sheet in a convincing 2-0 win over Portland to secure their first home win at Nu Stadium. They leaned on their star Argentine for attacking quality in the big moments and were defensively resolute in a comfortable victory against a spirited Portland side.
Matchday 2 of MLS brought a signature comeback win for Inter Miami, and a continuation of form for the Red Bulls. But it might be time to worry about Atlanta.
GOAL’s writers analyze LAFC’s battering of Inter Miami, the New York Red Bulls’ fast start, and whether Nashville is the contender everyone forgot in the latest Rondo.
Phil Neville’s squad begins their campaign against a new-look Crew side under Henrik Rydström. Catch every moment live on Apple TV. Check here for kickoff times and how to stream the action today!
With the 2026 Major League Soccer season just around the corner, Columbus Crew made a late move in the market by securing the services of Portuguese midfielder André Gomes. The 32-year-old arrives in Ohio as a free agent after ending his stint with French side Lille, where he struggled for consistent playing time this season.
If you're wondering about the main dates for the upcoming Major League Soccer season, GOAL has you covered - plus more info on how to watch games on TV
GOAL spoke to GMs and chief soccer officers across MLS about the league’s 3.0 vision: the calendar change is progress, but executives say the next steps must come faster.
MLS returns with a packed schedule and familiar chaos. From stars like Messi, Rodriguez, and Son Heung-Min to the teams you can avoid, here’s who’s actually worth your weekend watch.
Messi has lifted the trophy, but the real work starts now. Miami have decisions to make, Philadelphia's prodigy Cavan Sullivan is waiting for his chance, and every contender is hunting the right signing before February.
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Portland Timbers
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