Inter Miami rallied to beat NYCFC 3-2, highlighted by Messi's milestone goal and a late defensive stand.
Inter Miami secured a 3-2 victory over New York City FC in a Major League Soccer match held at Yankee Stadium on March 22, 2026. The win marked Inter Miami's first MLS victory since March 7, improving their record to 3-1-1 with 10 points.
Gonzalo Lujan opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the fourth minute with his first career MLS goal. NYCFC equalized in the 17th minute when Nicolas Fernandez Mercau scored on a free kick that bounced under the crossbar.
Key Moments of the Match
NYCFC took a 2-1 lead in the 59th minute after Agustin Ojeda scored, assisted by Maxi Moralez. Inter Miami responded quickly when Messi's free kick deflected off Hannes Wolf and into the net two minutes later, tying the game at 2-2 and marking his 901st career goal.
Micael dos Santos Silva then headed in the winning goal in the 74th minute from a cross by Noah Allen, beating NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese. Inter Miami goalkeeper Dayne St Clair made three saves, including a crucial one in stoppage time to preserve the win.
Messi had additional chances, hitting the post in the 31st minute and the crossbar in the 42nd minute, but could not add to his tally. German Berterame's potential goal in the 79th minute was disallowed due to an offside call.
NYCFC, who entered the match with a 3-1-1 record and 10 points, suffered their first defeat of the season, ending a three-game winning streak. The loss came shortly after Inter Miami's elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
