Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi reacts after scoring a goal against New York City FC during the second half of an MLS soccer game, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, in New York.
Lionel Messi once again demonstrated why he is one of the greatest footballers of all time. On Wednesday night, he scored two goals and provided an assist, helping Inter Miami secure a dominant 4-0 victory over New York City FC. With this win, Miami clinched a spot in the MLS playoffs.
Lionel Messi Reaches 37 Goal Contributions
Messi’s performance this season has been nothing short of remarkable. With two goals and an assist against New York City FC, he reached 37 goal contributions this campaign. This achievement highlights his continued dominance and influence on the field, keeping Inter Miami at the top of the MLS standings.
Miami Continues Hot Streak
Inter Miami, now boasting a 16-6-7 record, is riding a three-game winning streak. Their league-leading goal total has now climbed to 64 for the season. Fans have witnessed high-scoring encounters in recent games, with five of the last six matches featuring at least three goals. The team most recently edged out D.C. United in a thrilling 3-2 victory, demonstrating their offensive firepower.
Historic Feats for Messi
Messi made history in this match. After his first-half assist, he became the first MLS player to record at least 35 goal contributions in consecutive seasons. His second-half heroics—scoring twice—also cemented his place in the MLS record books, making him the fourth player in league history to achieve eight multi-goal games in a single season.
Key Moments of the Match
The scoring opened after a first-half assist from Messi. He doubled the lead in the 74th minute with a precise chip over goalkeeper Matt Freese, who had rushed out on a breakaway. Luis Suárez, returning from suspension, converted a penalty in the 83rd minute. Messi added another goal just three minutes later, putting the match out of reach for New York City FC.
Strong Defensive Performance
Inter Miami’s defense also impressed. Goalkeeper Óscar Ustari recorded his sixth clean sheet of the season. The team’s organized defensive play ensured New York City’s attacks were largely ineffective. Despite having a few promising scoring chances, the visitors struggled to break through Miami’s solid backline.
New York City’s Missed Opportunities
New York City FC (16-10-5) saw its three-game winning streak come to an abrupt end. The first half offered two notable chances. Thiago Martins, left unmarked at the far post, headed straight at Ustari from a corner kick. Nicolás Fernández, twisting past his defender in the box, forced Ustari into a dive the wrong way, but the shot narrowly missed, hitting the post. These missed opportunities proved costly.
Miami’s Road to the Playoffs
With this emphatic win, Inter Miami strengthens its playoff position. Their high-scoring offense, led by Messi and supported by teammates like Luis Suárez, has become a formidable force in the MLS. Fans and analysts alike are now keeping a close eye on how far this star-studded squad can go in the postseason.
Lionel Messi’s Impact on MLS
Messi’s arrival in Major League Soccer continues to leave an indelible mark. Breaking records and inspiring teammates, he has elevated both the league’s profile and Inter Miami’s ambitions. As Miami heads into the playoffs, Messi remains the focal point of their success.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami now prepares for the next round with confidence. With a combination of attacking brilliance and defensive solidity, they are well-positioned to make a deep run. Meanwhile, New York City FC must regroup quickly after this heavy defeat if they hope to challenge for the postseason.
