Messi inspires Inter Miami to 2-0 win over NYCFC, clinching MLS playoff spot

Lionel Messi produced a masterclass performance, providing a crucial assist to lead Inter Miami to a 2-0 victory against New York City FC and secure their place in the MLS playoffs, according to a report by Al Jazeera.​

The victory handed head coach Cristian “Kily” González back-to-back wins, consolidating second place in the Eastern Conference with five games remaining in the regular season.

Germán Berterame opened the scoring in the 20th minute following a combined buildup involving Messi and Luis Suárez, ending his dry spell since May.

Rodrigo De Paul added the second goal on the stroke of halftime after Messi drew three defenders and laid off a precise pass. Dayne St. Clair preserved Miami’s second consecutive clean sheet with a late penalty save in stoppage time.