Inter Miami with Messi Crush New York City FC in MLS
In an MLS regular season match, Inter Miami secured a resounding 4-0 victory over New York City FC. Lionel Messi scored a brace and provided an assist, strengthening his team's lead in the Eastern Conference.
Main Event
On the night of May 18-19, 2026, a Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season match once again proved that Lionel Messi is a figure of almost mythical proportions on the American continent. Inter Miami, playing away at Citi Field in New York, thrashed local side New York City FC 4-0. The match was played in front of nearly 25,000 spectators and remained competitive only until midway through the second half, after which it turned into a showcase for the Argentine and his star teammates. This victory allowed Inter Miami to rise to third place in the Eastern Conference standings and continue their fight for the top positions in the league.
Details and Statistics
The match statistics recorded total dominance by the visitors. Lionel Messi scored a brace and provided one assist, bringing his total goal contributions to 37 this season. He became the first player in MLS history to reach 35 or more goal contributions in two consecutive seasons. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner scored his first goal in the 74th minute, elegantly chipping the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper Matt Freese. Messi netted his second goal in the 86th minute, sealing the final score.
Joining the Argentine on the scoresheet were Luis Suárez, who converted a penalty in the 83rd minute, and Baltasar Rodríguez, who scored from a Messi assist. The Uruguayan striker returned to the lineup after a suspension and immediately made his presence felt by converting the spot kick. Inter Miami goalkeeper Óscar Ustari had a flawless match, recording his sixth clean sheet of the season. For New York City FC, this defeat was their first in four matches, having previously won three in a row.
Context and Significance
This victory was Inter Miami's third consecutive league win, cementing their reputation as one of the main contenders for a playoff spot. After 29 matches, the team has 55 points, while their New York opponents sit in fifth place with 53 points from 31 games.
It is worth noting that this win served as a form of revenge for previous setbacks. Earlier in the season, on April 20, Inter Miami suffered a painful 0-4 away defeat to the New York Red Bulls in Messi's absence due to injury. Now, with their captain back in the lineup, the Herons confidently dispatched another Big Apple club, scoring five goals in their last three MLS matches.
Messi's record-breaking form continues to rewrite league history. Just recently, on May 9, 2026, in a 6-2 win against the New York Red Bulls, the Argentine recorded one goal and five assists, breaking MLS records for most goal contributions (6) and assists (5) in a single game. His contribution to the team's attack remains a decisive factor in the championship race. Inter Miami head coach Gerardo Martino remarked after that historic match: "It's becoming routine, but it seems he's always making history."
What's Next / Next Match Preview
Inter Miami's next MLS regular season match will be away against Toronto FC. The game will take place this Saturday at BMO Field in Canada. For Gerardo Martino's team, this is an opportunity to extend their winning streak to four matches and solidify their position in the top three of the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, New York City FC faces a tough derby against the New York Red Bulls, where they will look to redeem themselves after the heavy defeat in front of their fans. Both matches promise to be intense and will have a direct impact on the playoff race.
— Editorial Team
