Messi Magic Inspires Inter Miami’s Remarkable Comeback
Despite falling behind early in the match, Inter Miami secured a crucial victory through Lionel Messi’s outstanding performance. The Florida-based side defeated the New England Revolution to secure a place in the next edition of the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Miami secured a 2-1 victory in the Major League Soccer (MLS) match at New England’s home ground on Monday morning (Bangladesh time). The win earned Mr. Messi’s side three valuable points in the race for a playoff spot.
Although both teams created several chances in the first half, neither managed to score. Daniel Gazdag put hosts New England ahead in the 53rd minute, putting Inter Miami under pressure.
However, Mr. Messi once again emerged as his team’s saviour. In the 69th minute, German Berterame headed home a perfectly placed assist from Mr. Messi to level the score.
After getting back into the game, Miami increased the pace of their attacks. Mr. Messi then turned the match around with a brilliant finish in the 83rd minute. The Argentine superstar dribbled past three defenders before scoring a stunning goal to put his team ahead, adding to his tally for the season.
Mr. Messi is the league’s leading scorer with 26 goals. He also has 13 assists, the second-highest tally in the league.
Mr. Messi’s goal not only secured the victory but also booked Inter Miami’s place in the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Had Miami lost or drawn against New England, they would have had to continue fighting for qualification on the final matchday on November 7. However, the victory eliminated that uncertainty.
Nashville SC, the New England Revolution and the Vancouver Whitecaps have already secured qualification for the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
The winners of the 2026 MLS Cup will also earn a place in the Champions Cup.
New England tried to find an equaliser in the closing stages, but Inter Miami’s defence held firm.
Match statistics show that the victory did not come easily for Inter Miami.
Miami attempted 13 shots, six of which were on target. New England Revolution, meanwhile, managed five shots on target from nine attempts.
New England dominated possession, controlling 52 per cent of the ball. They also had a clear advantage in corners, winning seven compared to Miami’s one.
Miami were relatively more aggressive in physical challenges. The team committed 16 fouls and received three yellow cards, while New England players received just one yellow card.
The victory was particularly important given Miami’s recent results. They had previously lost 2-0 to the New York Red Bulls and drawn 2-2 against FC Cincinnati. The win ended their run of two matches without a victory and put them back on track.
The victory takes Inter Miami’s points tally to 59, one ahead of New England’s 58. With only one regular-season match remaining, the three points could prove crucial for Mr. Messi’s side in the playoff race.
