Inter Miami Beat NYCFC 3-2: Messi Scores in MLS 2026 Match

NEW YORK – Inter Miami CF secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over New York City FC at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, March 22, 2026, in a Major League Soccer contest. A second-half free kick from Lionel Messi proved pivotal as the Herons overcame a deficit to claim three points and move into a tie for second place in the Eastern Conference.

The match, played before a lively crowd at the iconic Yankee Stadium, saw Inter Miami (3-1-1) hand NYCFC (3-1-1) their first loss of the MLS season. The result leaves both teams with 10 points, trailing only the conference leaders.

First Half Drama

Inter Miami drew first blood in the 4th minute when Gonzalo Luján found the back of the net. The goal originated from a Lionel Messi corner kick, initially cleared by the NYCFC defense, but a subsequent volley from Telasco Segovia set up Luján for a close-range finish. It was Luján’s first career goal in his 30th career appearance.

NYCFC responded quickly, leveling the score in the 17th minute through Nicolás Fernández. Fernández expertly converted a free kick, bringing his goal tally to eight in his last 16 appearances since last season. The goal injected energy into the NYCFC attack and set the stage for a competitive first half.

Despite several attacking forays, neither team could find a breakthrough for the remainder of the first half, leaving the score tied 1-1 at the interval. Messi, deployed in his customary attacking role, repeatedly tested the NYCFC defense but couldn’t add to Inter Miami’s tally.

Second-Half Comeback Fueled by Messi

The second half began with Inter Miami pressing for a go-ahead goal, but it was NYCFC who struck first. In the 59th minute, Agustín Ojeda put the home side ahead, capitalizing on a well-worked move involving Maxi Moralez and Kevin O’Toole. It marked Ojeda’s second goal of the season and his fifth in 61 career matches.

However, Inter Miami’s response was swift and decisive. Just two minutes later, Lionel Messi stepped up to take a free kick and delivered a stunning strike that found the back of the net, leveling the score at 2-2. This was Messi’s fourth goal of the season and his 54th in 58 MLS appearances, bringing his illustrious career goal total to 901.

The momentum had clearly shifted, and Inter Miami completed the comeback in the 74th minute. Messi’s corner kick found Micael dos Santos, who rose highest to head the ball past the NYCFC goalkeeper. Noah Allen and David Ayala were credited with assists on Micael’s first goal for his new team.

Key Performances and Defensive Solidity

Beyond Messi’s crucial contributions, Inter Miami’s victory was built on a solid defensive performance. Goalkeeper Dayne St. Claire, in his first season with the defending MLS Cup champions, made three key saves to deny NYCFC’s attempts to get back into the game. He has conceded eight goals in his four starts this season.

For NYCFC, Maxi Moralez continued to showcase his playmaking abilities, providing the assist for Ojeda’s goal and consistently creating opportunities for his teammates. However, the team ultimately couldn’t withstand Inter Miami’s late surge.

What’s Next

Inter Miami will return to action on [Date of next Inter Miami match – *information not available in provided sources*], while NYCFC will look to rebound against [Opponent of next NYCFC match – *information not available in provided sources*]. Both teams will aim to build on their current form as the MLS season progresses.

The victory for Inter Miami underscores their status as a contender in the Eastern Conference, and with Messi continuing to perform at a high level, they will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with throughout the season.

This article will be updated with further information as it becomes available.