Lionel Messi makes more MLS history for Inter Miami without even kicking a ball after Luis Suarez matches Argentina superstar's award tally for 2024

After Suarez's double helped Miami beat Cincinnati on Sunday in MLS action, the Uruguayan earned his third MLS Player of the Matchday award. The 37-year-old joins team-mate Messi - who has been out with an ankle injury since July - and Real Salt Lake's Cristian Arango as three-time honourees this season. Miami are the first team in MLS history to have two players win this accolade at least three times in a campaign.

While Messi is still out injured with an ankle issue, Suarez is racking up the goals for Miami. The effort against Cincinnati was his 14th of the season and those goals have secured the Herons a spot in the MLS Cup Play-offs as they chase the ultimate prize in U.S. club soccer.

Former Barcelona and Liverpool star Suarez is just two goals behind the club's single season MLS record, held by ex-Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain. He netted on 16 occasions in 2022 and Suarez may have his sights on breaking that record.

Miami, who are eight points clear at the top of MLS' Eastern Conference, next fact Chicago on September 1. It remains to be seen when Messi will be back from injury and can link up with fellow attacker Suarez.