In a thrilling encounter at Yankee Stadium on March 22, 2026, Inter Miami edged out New York City FC with a score of 3-2. The match was marked by a standout performance from Lionel Messi, who scored a stunning free kick in the 60th minute, contributing to Miami’s victory.
Gonzalo Luján opened the scoring for Inter Miami just three minutes into the match, setting the tone for an exciting game. NYCFC responded with goals from Nicolás Fernández in the 17th minute and Agustín Ojeda in the 59th minute, but it was not enough to secure a win. Micael sealed the game for Miami with a goal in the 74th minute, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess.
The numbers
Inter Miami dominated the match with a total of 22 shots compared to NYCFC’s 11, reflecting their aggressive approach on the field. Possession was also in Miami’s favor, with the team holding 55.4% of the ball throughout the match. Dayne St. Clair made a crucial save in stoppage time, ensuring that Miami walked away with the victory.
Javier Mascherano, who was suspended for the match, praised his team’s resilience, stating, “The team and the players showed great character to come back and turn the game around.” His absence was felt, but Leandro Stillitano managed the team effectively, guiding them to this important win.
After the match, Ian Fray expressed the team’s determination, saying, “We wanted to bounce back as quick as possible, and that’s what we did here.” This victory is particularly significant as Inter Miami is the defending MLS champion, and they are looking to maintain their strong performance this season.
Messi’s goal marked the 901st of his illustrious career, further solidifying his legacy in the sport. His ability to perform under pressure continues to inspire both teammates and fans alike. Mascherano noted, “We try to take care of Leo as much as possible. He feels comfortable playing,” highlighting the team’s commitment to supporting their star player.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will host Austin FC on April 4 for their first home game of the season at the newly opened Nu Stadium. Fans are eagerly anticipating this event, which promises to be a significant moment for the team and its supporters.
As the season progresses, observers will be keen to see how Inter Miami builds on this victory and whether they can continue their winning streak. With the talent on their roster and the leadership of their coaching staff, the future looks bright for the defending champions.
