Inter Miami is set to chase the MLS points record on Saturday, with star player Lionel Messi likely starting as a substitute, according to coach Tata Martino’s statement on Friday.

Messi, who recently scored a hat trick and provided two assists for the Argentine national team, will be assessed after Friday’s practice ahead of the home game against the New England Revolution at Chase Stadium.

If they win, Inter Miami will conclude this season with 74 points, surpassing the Revolution’s previous record of 73 points set in 2021. The team has already secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield and the top seed in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

“This match is significant because we’ve been setting objectives, and this points record wasn’t planned at the start of the season. Now that it’s within reach, we will strive to achieve it,” said Martino.

“Our primary focus is next Friday’s playoff game. … We are considering how much playtime we can provide to the players who were with their national teams, including Leo. It’s likely he will start on the bench, given his recent travel and gameplay.”

How to Watch the Inter Miami vs. New England Revolution Live Stream

The match between Inter Miami and New England Revolution kicks off at 6 p.m. ET at Chase Stadium and can be streamed live via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

Update on Messi

Since returning from a right-ankle ligament injury that sidelined him for two months, Messi has played in seven matches, netting eight goals since his comeback on September 14.

Following two matches with Argentina for World Cup 2026 qualifying, Messi returned to Inter Miami training on Thursday and Friday.

Messi has not yet confirmed his participation for Argentina in the upcoming World Cup.

“I prefer to take things one day at a time. When the time is right, we will see,” Messi said about the future World Cup after receiving the MARCA America Award on Thursday.

Who Will Inter Miami Play in the MLS Playoffs?

Inter Miami will play its first playoff match on October 25, with the opponent yet to be decided. They will face the winner of the Eastern Conference wild-card matchup on October 22 between the No. 8 and No. 9 seeds.

The teams in the hunt for the final two playoff spots on MLS Decision Day are No. 8 D.C. United, No. 9 CF Montréal, No. 11 Philadelphia Union, and No. 12 Atlanta United, while No. 10 Toronto has been eliminated.