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Messi Magic Strikes Again! Inter Miami Edges NYCFC 3-2 in Thriller

Inter Miami secured a dramatic 3-2 away victory over New York City FC, powered by goals from defenders Gonzalo Lujan and Micael and a crucial free kick from captain Lionel Messi. The team twice came from behind, with Messi's 61st-minute equalizer shifting the momentum before Micael's 74th-minute header sealed the win. The victory extends Inter Miami's unbeaten start to the MLS regular season to four matches. The club will now look ahead to their historic first home game at the new Nu Stadium on April 4.

Key Points: Messi Scores as Inter Miami Beats NYCFC 3-2 in MLS

  • Messi scores crucial free kick
  • Defenders score first club goals
  • Inter Miami rallies from behind
  • Unbeaten run extends to four matches
2 min read

MLS: Messi scores as Inter Miami beat New York City 3-2

Lionel Messi scores a free kick as Inter Miami rallies to a 3-2 road win over New York City FC, extending their unbeaten run in the MLS season.

"Messi struck shortly after to equalise for Inter Miami in the 61st minute, scoring from a free kick - Match Report"

New York, March 23

Inter Miami CF secured a 3-2 win on the road over New York City FC to extend its unbeaten run to four this MLS regular season.

The first goals from defenders Gonzalo Lujan and Micael in Inter Miami colors, as well as a strike from captain Leo Messi, powered Inter Miami to victory at Yankee Stadium in New York City.

Inter Miami pulled ahead early in the 4th minute, with center back Luján taking advantage of a rebound after an initial attempt from Segovia that was blocked, and striking from the center of the box. Notably, Lujan's goal was the first of his career.

New York City FC equalized in the 17th minute with a goal from Nicolás Fernandez.

Messi came close to reclaiming the lead for Inter Miami, rattling the left post in the 31st and 42nd minutes with curlers from outside the box, but the 1-1 scoreline held through the first half.

The home side took the lead in the 59th minute with a goal from Agustin Ojeda.

Messi struck shortly after to equalise for Inter Miami in the 61st minute, scoring from a free kick to take his tally to four this 2026 regular season.

Inter Miami reclaimed its lead in the 74th minute, with a towering header from Micael from the right end of the box to capitalize on a pinpoint cross from Allen from the left side of the pitch. The goal was Micael's first as an Inter Miami player, while the assist was the second for Allen this league campaign.

On the other end of the pitch, Inter Miami was rock solid at the back to preserve the lead. Notably, Ayala made a key block to deny an attempt from NYCFC's Talles Magno from inside the box in the 90th minute, while St. Clair saved a header from Aiden O'Neill in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

The 2-3 scoreline ultimately remained unchanged and Inter Miami claimed all three points at Yankee Stadium.

Inter Miami will play its first home game of the season when it hosts Austin FC on April 4 for the historic inaugural match at Nu Stadium

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Staying up late in India to watch Messi play is always worth it! The man is a magician. But credit to the whole team – that last-minute block by Ayala was crucial. Inter Miami looks like a proper unit this season.
R
Rohit P
Good win, but the defense still looks a bit shaky conceding two goals. Against stronger teams, that could be costly. St. Clair made a good save at the end, but they need to control the game better. Just my two paise.
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Priya S
Micael's header! What a goal for a defender. Allen's cross was perfect. It's so fun to see different players step up. The team spirit seems high. Can't wait for their first home game at the new stadium!
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Vikram M
Messi hitting the post twice before scoring... that's his luck turning! 😄 Four games unbeaten is a solid start. Bringing this momentum to their new home ground will be key. The MLS is more exciting with him there, no doubt.
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Kavya N
As a football fan from Mumbai, I love following MLS now. The article was a good read. It's impressive how the team fought back. Shows great mentality. Hope they can keep it up for the full season!

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