Lionel Messi Shines as Inter Miami Secures 2026 MLS Playoff Spot with Convincing Win Over NYCFC
Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul were pivotal in Inter Miami’s 2-0 win against New York City FC, sealing their place in the 2026 MLS playoffs. Goals from Germán Berterame and De Paul, combined with Messi’s creative influence, helped the Herons maintain their strong momentum under new coach Kily Gonzalez.
Inter Miami Dominates NYCFC
Inter Miami booked their postseason spot with a confident 2-0 result on Wednesday night at Nu Stadium. The scoring opened when Germán Berterame broke his goal drought since May by converting a precise assist from Luis Suarez, beating goalkeeper Matthew Freese.
Rodrigo De Paul extended the lead before halftime, striking powerfully into the top corner after a slick exchange with Messi near the penalty area. Despite a late penalty chance for NYCFC, Inter Miami’s keeper Dayne St. Clair made a crucial save to keep the clean sheet intact.
Coach Gonzalez Aims Higher
This victory marked the second league win for head coach Kily Gonzalez, who took over in mid-September. Gonzalez expressed pride in reaching the playoffs but emphasized ongoing progress for the squad.
"Qualifying for the playoffs was one of our main goals this season, and we’ve achieved that, but we still need to keep improving as a team," Gonzalez said after the match. "Having players buy into the vision makes everything easier. We recognize and work on our mistakes during training, and that willingness helps us communicate clearly."
Messi Focused on Domestic Success After International Retirement
Inter Miami climbed to second place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points from 29 games, chasing Nashville SC who lead the standings. They also aim to defend their MLS Cup title won against Vancouver Whitecaps in 2025.
Messi has had an emotional year, topping the league with 23 goals and 14 assists. After leading Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final, he retired from international football to focus solely on winning trophies with Inter Miami.
"This club looks after him and protects him," Gonzalez remarked about Messi. "His teammates show constant affection and give their all. He pushes us to improve every day and challenges us."
Upcoming Fixtures and Challenges
Miami hopes to continue their strong form when they face Atlanta United on Saturday. Coming off a 4-0 win over DC United and their solid performance against NYCFC, Gonzalez’s team is building momentum at a critical stage. A good result in Georgia is important as they pursue Nashville for the top seed.
Meanwhile, New York City FC faces pressure as they hover just below the playoff line. They must regroup quickly ahead of a tough home game versus LAFC this weekend.
- Next matches:
- Atlanta United vs Inter Miami: 18 Oct 2026, 02:30 (MLS)
- New York City FC vs LAFC: 18 Oct 2026, 02:30 (MLS)
