Messi fires Inter Miami into MLS playoffs with 2-0 win

Lionel Messi played a decisive role as Inter Miami secured their place in the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs with a convincing 2-0 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday.

The Argentine superstar set up Rodrigo De Paul’s goal and helped create the opportunity for German Berterame to end his scoring drought, guiding Miami to their second consecutive victory under head coach Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez.

The result guaranteed second-placed Inter Miami at least a place in the wild-card round, with five regular-season matches remaining. The victory also strengthened their position in the Eastern Conference standings and improved their prospects of securing home-field advantage during the playoffs.

“I’m leaving happy. Obviously, there’s a lot to improve, but we’re making progress little by little,” Gonzalez said after the match.

Messi entered the game in impressive form after scoring twice on Saturday, following his return from an emotional farewell with Argentina. Against New York City, he once again demonstrated his influence, contributing to both goals in the first half.

Miami opened the scoring in the 20th minute through Berterame. Messi controlled the ball outside the penalty area before passing to De Paul, who delivered a looping diagonal ball towards Luis Suarez near the byline.

Suarez then played a low pass across the goalmouth, allowing Berterame to finish from close range and score his first goal since May.

The hosts doubled their advantage just before half-time with a quick counterattack. Berterame carried the ball over the halfway line before finding Messi with a slightly mishit pass.

With three defenders closing in, Messi calmly used the outside of his left foot to release De Paul, who fired a powerful shot high into the net to make it 2-0.

The second half produced no further goals, although Messi continued to threaten. He sent a curling effort over the crossbar before creating another opportunity in the closing stages.

In the 90th minute, Messi took a short corner and laid the ball off to De Paul, whose long-range strike forced United States goalkeeper Matt Freese into an outstanding diving save. The goalkeeper tipped the effort onto the post to prevent a third goal.

New York City, who have managed only one win in their previous 11 MLS matches, had a chance to score a consolation goal deep into stoppage time.

However, Dayne St. Clair denied Talles Magno from the penalty spot, diving low to his right and pushing the ball around the crossbar.

The save completed another strong defensive performance from Miami, who recorded their second consecutive clean sheet after going without one in their previous 10 matches.

Gonzalez praised his players for maintaining their defensive shape and preventing dangerous counterattacks, although he acknowledged that their ball circulation was sometimes too slow.

With first-placed Nashville maintaining a strong position in the Eastern Conference, Miami will now look to preserve second place and carry their improving form into the postseason.