Inter Miami defeated New York City FC 2-0 on Wednesday, securing their position in the MLS playoffs for the third consecutive year. Lionel Messi played a pivotal role in the match, assisting on one goal and contributing to another, while German Berterame ended his scoring drought with a goal of his own.
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This victory marks the first time Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez has achieved back-to-back wins since becoming head coach last month. The team is now guaranteed at least a wild card spot in the playoffs with five games remaining in the regular season.
Gonzalez remarked, "I’m leaving happy. Obviously, there’s a lot to improve, but we’re making progress little by little."
Messi, who scored twice in a recent match against Atlanta United, demonstrated his impact early in the game. In the 20th minute, he set up Berterame’s goal by passing to Rodrigo De Paul, who assisted Berterame for a straightforward finish. De Paul later added the second goal just before halftime, following a swift counterattack where Messi played a critical role in drawing defenders before assisting De Paul, who fired the ball past the New York keeper.
The second half saw Miami maintaining their lead but failing to score additional goals. Messi attempted a curling shot from outside the box that went over. In stoppage time, NYCFC was awarded a penalty, but Dayne St. Clair made a remarkable save after Ian Fray fouled Talles Magno.
This win gave Inter Miami their second consecutive clean sheet, a stark contrast to their previous ten matches without one. Gonzalez noted his satisfaction with the team’s defensive organization and aggression, despite acknowledging that their ball circulation could be improved.
While first-place Nashville remains ahead in the Eastern Conference, Miami has solidified their hold on second place and potential home-field advantage in the upcoming playoffs.