Inter Miami's quest for glory took center stage on February 23, 2025, as Lionel Messi’s influence was palpable during their season-opening match against New York City FC. The game ended dramatically with a 2-2 draw at Chase Stadium, showcasing both Messi's exceptional talent and the resilience of the team.
Fans packed the stadium, buzzing with anticipation to see how the iconic Messi would fit within the framework of Inter Miami, particularly after his landmark signing the previous year. The match began positively for Inter Miami, with Messi quickly leaving his mark. Just four minutes in, he set up Tomás Avilés, who scored and put the home team on the scoreboard first. The energy was electric, as optimism filled the air.
But the atmosphere shifted dramatically at the 23rd minute when Avilés received a straight red card, reducing Inter Miami to ten men. This pivotal moment altered the course of the match, forcing the players to adapt with one fewer option on the pitch. New York City FC capitalized on this advantage and quickly equalized three minutes later through Mitja Ilenič, who scored with precision during a set-piece opportunity.
With the momentum on their side, NYCFC took the lead after halftime when Alonso Martínez scored, seemingly sealing the match for the visitors at 2-1. It appeared the match was slipping away from Inter Miami, yet under the pressure, Messi demonstrated why he is revered globally. With time running out and the home crowd roaring for hope, Messi orchestrated one final play.
Deep in stoppage time, Messi launched a counter-attack, threading the needle with his incisive passing. He found Telasco Segovia, giving him the perfect chance to score. Segovia found the back of the net, securing the much-needed equalizer and sending the fans at Chase Stadium erupting with joy.
Messi’s two assists not only highlighted his playmaking prowess but also marked him as the fastest player in MLS history to notch 40 contributions to goals, achieving this milestone in just 26 games, according to reports from sports media sources. His ability to perform under pressure and turn the tide could prove pivotal for Inter Miami as they navigate through the season.
After the match, commentators praised Messi's pivotal role, emphasizing how his presence extended beyond the field. "Messi was instrumental, assisting both of Inter Miami's goals, showcasing his skill and leadership," reported oGol.com.br. It's clear his impact is felt not just statistically but also as an influence on his teammates and fans alike.
Looking forward, Inter Miami is poised to face tougher challenges, with their next game being against Sporting Kansas City, also part of the Concacaf Champions Cup. Winning this match will be key as they aim to recover and maintain momentum following the emotional draw.
For the players, especially the newcomers under the leadership of coach Javier Mascherano, the goal will be to turn these performances around and learn from the ups and downs of their opener. Still, there’s no doubt the excitement surrounding Lionel Messi and the potential of Inter Miami is at an all-time high as they look to capitalize on this season's momentum.
The drama of this match has set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating MLS season, with Messi leading the charge for Inter Miami as they strive for accolades both domestically and internationally.