Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance for Inter Miami in their thrilling 3-0 victory over NYCFC at Yankee Stadium, cementing his status as the team’s talisman with a decisive brace. The Argentine maestro opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a trademark curling free-kick that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot, showcasing his technical brilliance and composure under pressure. He doubled his tally just after halftime, latching onto a precise through ball from Robert Taylor to slot home a clinical finish, leaving the New York crowd stunned into silence. Messi’s influence extended beyond the goals, as he orchestrated play with his trademark vision, completing 92% of his passes and creating three additional chances, including a near-assist for Luis Suárez that was narrowly denied by the crossbar.
Inter Miami’s collective effort complemented Messi’s heroics, with the midfield duo of Diego Gómez and Federico Redondo dictating the tempo and stifling NYCFC’s attacking threats. The defense, marshaled by Kamal Miller, remained resolute throughout, denying the hosts a single shot on target and ensuring a clean sheet for goalkeeper Drake Callender. Substitute Benjamin Cremaschi added a third goal in the 85th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to seal the emphatic win. The Herons’ relentless pressing and fluid attacking transitions exposed NYCFC’s vulnerabilities, highlighting the gulf in quality between the two sides on the night.
The victory marked a statement win for Inter Miami, signaling their growing confidence as they pursue silverware in the 2024 MLS season. Dominating possession (62%) and outshooting NYCFC 18-7, the team’s tactical discipline under manager Tata Martino was on full display, with the result propelling them into the top four of the Eastern Conference. For Messi, the brace extended his remarkable goal-scoring streak to six consecutive matches, further endearing him to the traveling Miami faithful who chanted his name long after the final whistle. As the Herons celebrate a commanding performance in the Big Apple, the rest of the league is left wondering how to contain a team now firing on all cylinders.
