The match remained scoreless through a cagey first half, but the intensity shifted shortly after the restart. New England broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute when Daniel Gazdag converted a clever heel-flick from Ilay Feingold, following a surging run down the wing by Peyton Miller. Miami responded with renewed pressure, eventually finding an equalizer in the 69th minute through a display of improvisation from Messi, who redirected a cross off the back of his head into the path of German Berterame, who finished the chance.
Messi’s Late Heroics Seal Crucial Points
With the game tied, Messi took control in the final stages. Receiving the ball just outside the penalty area, the Argentine captain navigated past three defenders before firing a precise, low left-footed strike into the far corner, beating United States goalkeeper Matt Turner. The goal secured the lead for Miami, though the closing minutes were not without tension. An own goal by Ian Fray in the 87th minute appeared to level the score for New England, but a video review overturned the decision due to a marginal offside call against a substitute.
Following the match, Berterame highlighted the significance of the result, noting that the team’s collective effort was essential against a difficult opponent. The victory leaves Inter Miami one point ahead of the Revolution with only one regular-season fixture remaining. A win against Charlotte this coming Saturday would guarantee the club home-field advantage through the Eastern Conference Finals.
Playoff Implications Across the Conference
Sunday’s action also finalized the remaining Eastern Conference playoff spots. The Columbus Crew and Orlando City officially secured their postseason berths after the New York Red Bulls fell 3-2 to Nashville. Nashville, who have already clinched the Supporters’ Shield, reached 74 points with the win, matching the MLS record for the highest points total in a single season. The club also set a league record by securing 15 home victories in a single campaign, maintaining an unbeaten record at Geodis Park. The postseason structure will see higher-seeded teams host matches throughout the playoffs, leading up to the MLS Cup final on December 18.
