From Alaska to Austin, MLS stars are opening up about the surreal experience of evolving from childhood fans to on-field rivals of Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s "Barcelona quartet". USMNT forward Brandon Vazquez and Atlético Madrid’s Obed Vargas shared how lining up against their idols felt like a "FIFA console dream" come to life - and how they had to overcome the "out-of-body experience" to actually beat them.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would be “very complementary” in the same team, Rene Meulensteen has told GOAL, with CR7 being backed for a move to MLS Cup winners Inter Miami if he lands the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr. The Portuguese GOAT is closing in on another crown in the Middle East, which could lead to him exploring future options elsewhere.
Obed Vargas has opened up about his memorable on-field confrontation with Lionel Messi, admitting he was overwhelmed by the absurdity of being targeted by his childhood idol. The former Seattle Sounders midfielder explained that his laughter during the 2025 Leagues Cup clash was a product of disbelief rather than a lack of respect.
Sir David Beckham has made history by becoming Britain’s first billionaire sportsman following the release of the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List. Alongside his wife Victoria, the Manchester United legend has seen his net worth soar to record levels, driven by lucrative brand endorsements and his successful ownership stake in MLS side Inter Miami.
Philadelphia Union’s season has gone sideways, but Cavan Sullivan’s first MLS goal offered a glimpse of why the club’s patient approach with its teenage star may still pay off.
Zavier Gozo wants Europe, and clubs are watching. But sources tell GOAL RSL’s huge asking price and a potential USMNT World Cup push could shape what comes next.
Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to a dramatic comeback victory against FC Cincinnati, yet he was controversially denied a 61st career hat-trick by Major League Soccer officials. Despite seemingly finding the net three times during the match, a technical ruling regarding a late deflection saw the league credit the decisive third strike as an own goal instead.
Red Bull New York academy product Julian Hall became the youngest player in MLS history to score a hat trick at 18 years and 50 days old, passing Ricardo Pepi’s previous mark of 18 years and 196 days. Hall now has nine goals and two assists this season, emerging as a major bright spot for a Red Bulls team that has found new life under first-year head coach Michael Bradley.
Cavan Sullivan’s first MLS league goal is another milestone in one of American soccer’s most-watched young careers. The 16-year-old Philadelphia Union standout helped spark a late rally against Orlando City SC, adding to a resume that already includes a pro contract at 14 and two CONCACAF Champions Cup goals earlier this year against Defence Force F.C. Despite his efforts, the Union suffered a heartbreaking 4-3 defeat.
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