The 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season kicked off with excitement and high hopes as Inter Miami CF hosted New York City FC (NYCFC) at Chase Stadium on February 22. Fans were eager to see if the team could start the season strong, especially with the recent signings made to bolster the squad alongside their superstar, Lionel Messi.
Inter Miami's roster has seen notable changes this offseason, aiming to reinforce its attack. One of the most talked-about additions is 18-year-old forward Allen Obando. The Ecuadorian, who previously played for Barcelona SC, has joined on loan from the ownership group behind Atlético Madrid, who acquired his rights for $5.5 million. This deal is viewed as part of Inter Miami’s strategy to not only support Messi on the field but also to inject fresh talent capable of making significant contributions to the club.
Obando's professional debut came at just 16 years old, and he ended his time at Barcelona SC with four goals and three assists across 23 matches. Joining Inter Miami as they prepare for their home opener against NYCFC signifies the club's resolve to build for both the present and future. Fans and analysts alike are curious to see how he fares alongside experienced stars like Messi and Luis Suárez.
Meanwhile, NYCFC, entering their eleventh season, is also gearing up for what promises to be another competitive year. Under new management with head coach Pascal Jansen, the Pigeons face questions about their depth, especially without key players Santiago Rodríguez and James Sands for the opener. Their track record is impressive: they’ve made the playoffs eight out of ten years and even secured the MLS Cup, setting high expectations for their tenth anniversary.
The stage was set for the season's opening clash, with kickoff at 7:30 PM ET and conditions predicting cloudy skies at 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The atmosphere was electric with fans brimming with anticipation to witness the showdown. Unfortunately for NYCFC, they were unable to field their first-choice lineup, which added pressure to their preparations.
The match started brightly for Inter Miami as Messi showcased his playmaking skills early on, assisting Toto Aviles who scored just five minutes after the whistle. The excitement was palpable as the home crowd erupted. But tensions rose when Aviles received a red card, leaving Miami with ten men midway through the first half, forcing them to adjust their strategy significantly.
NYCFC capitalized on the numerical advantage, leveling the score through Mitja Ilenic after Maxi Moralez's free-kick caught Miami’s defense unprepared. The momentum swung firmly to the Pigeons, and within ten minutes of the second half, Alonso Martínez put them up 2-1.
Despite the apparent setback, Inter Miami showcased resilience. Messi led the charge, threading passes and creating scoring opportunities. His vision and experience were on full display, keeping hope alive for Miami fans. After significant pressure, Messi assisted Telasco Segovia, who scored the equalizer right on the doorstep of stoppage time, marking his MLS debut with drama and skill.
“He’s like a kid playing, and he doesn’t want to lose,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano, reflecting on Messi’s influence on and off the pitch. His contributions were pivotal not only for the match but also for instilling belief within the rest of the team.
Messi's performance was historic as well, making him the fastest player to achieve 40 goal contributions in MLS history—adding to the legacy he is building during his time with Inter Miami. His path to stardom only seems to thrive; after the game, he had racked up 19 assists and 21 goals across just 26 matches.
The ambiance at Chase Stadium not only reflects the competitive spirit on the field but also the innovative matchday experience crafted for fans. This year, Inter Miami has revamped its culinary offerings and introduced technology to improve fan interactions at stadium concessions. A lineup of celebrated local chefs, including Michelle Bernstein, enhances the vibe, pairing Miami’s vibrant food scene with high-quality service.
Chase Stadium features unique offerings such as the VIP omakase experience, where patrons can enjoy luxurious dining alongside the game, showcasing the club's commitment to premium matchday moments. With fan engagement soaring, it’s evident Inter Miami CF looks to merge both sport and entertainment seamlessly.
While NYCFC faced uncertainties entering their season, the resilience displayed at Chase Stadium highlights the unpredictable nature of soccer, where fortunes can shift quickly. With Messi leading on the field and promising new talents joining the fray, Inter Miami's ambition remains clear: to make significant strides this season and capture the glory of MLS.
Despite the early challenges, both teams left everything on the pitch, ending the opener with excitement swirling for what is yet to come as the 2025 MLS season promises thrilling stories and unexpected outcomes.