Inter Miami CF kicked off its 2025 MLS regular season with high hopes, yet faced significant challenges during their season opener against New York City FC, culminating in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Chase Stadium.
The match saw Inter Miami's captain Lionel Messi taking center stage, providing assists for both goals and demonstrating why he is considered one of the best players ever to grace the pitch. The first goal came just five minutes in when Messi, receiving a perfectly threaded pass from Jordi Alba, set up defender Tomás Avilés for the straightforward finish. This goal marked Miami's first of the season and also made Messi the fastest player to achieve 40 career goal contributions (21 goals and 19 assists) in MLS history, reaching this milestone within just 26 games.
Things took a turn for the worse for Miami shortly thereafter when Avilés received a red card for a late sliding tackle, leaving the team to navigate the remainder of the match with ten men. NYCFC quickly capitalized on this advantage, equalizing in the 26th minute with Mitja Ilenič scoring after some crafty play around the free kick.
The second half saw NYCFC seize control, with Alonso Martínez netting their second goal just ten minutes after the break, seemingly pushing Miami to the brink of defeat. Miami's task was compounded by the fact they had to contend with both the numerical disadvantage and the persistent pressure from their opponents.
Still, resilience is characteristic of head coach Javier Mascherano's squad. With the clock ticking and many fans fearing the worst, Messi again proved instrumental. Deep within stoppage time, he delivered another brilliant assist to new signing Telasco Segovia, who made no mistake with his chance, deftly chipping the ball over NYCFC’s goalkeeper, Matt Freese. This stunning equalizer not only salvaged the match for Miami but marked Segovia's first goal for the club on his MLS debut.
“We have to keep overcoming the obstacles we encounter along the way,” Mascherano reflected post-match. “But I’m one of those who focus on the positives. Today, beyond the result, I take away positive things, the fact the team has soul and life.”
Despite the draw, Miami finished the game with considerable momentum thanks to Messi's leadership and the team's performance overall. They controlled the game with 58.1% possession and created 15 shots compared to NYCFC's 8. The upcoming matches on their schedule, including the second leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup tie against Sporting Kansas City, will test their resolve as they aim for continued success this season.
This season opener not only highlighted the talents within Inter Miami's roster but also set the stage for what fans can anticipate as the season progresses. With Messi and the likes of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets on board, expectations remain high for the Herons.
Looking back at the game, the debate over the officiation sparked some controversy, particularly concerning Avilés’ red card, leading fans and analysts alike to ponder if the decision was justified. Irrespective, the Miami side showcased their fighting spirit, coming back from adversity to salvage precious points.
The match against NYCFC put the club back on the soccer map, reminding all of Messi's continuing brilliance and the potential for Inter Miami to make waves within the league this season. The team is ready to move forward, eager to learn from this match and carry the momentum forward. The current squad, rich with talent and experience, remains focused on their goals.
“He’s like a kid playing, and he doesn’t want to lose,” Mascherano said of Messi. “We need to keep him with this spirit, because it’s not just what he does on the pitch, it’s what he translates to his teammates.”
Fans have reason to be optimistic about what’s to come, including the upcoming match against Sporting Kansas City, which will certainly be another test of Inter Miami’s mettle as they continue to chase glory both domestically and on the continental stage.