Inter Miami goes up against New York City FC this Wednesday at Citi Field in a game that could shift the course of the MLS season. Messi’s team sits in fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points and knows a win on the road could push them as high as third. The pressure is real, but so is the good vibe. They come from back-to-back victories, scoring three times in each, and Messi just delivered a show against DC United with two goals and an assist.
Messi’s weight and the chase for history
Messi already has 22 goals this season, sitting at the top of the Golden Boot race, and every match pulls him closer to the award. He also tied Carlos Vela with 16 games where he either scored or assisted in his first three MLS seasons, with only Preki ahead of him. Each time he takes the field, it feels less about the hype that came with his arrival and more about the reality of how much he has lifted this team. Facing NYCFC, his presence could decide more than just the scoreboard, it could shape Miami’s entire playoff path.
Even a draw would be enough to guarantee Javier Mascherano’s side a spot in the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs. That’s already a milestone, especially since they still have three games in hand compared to direct rivals. But the ambition is bigger. The gap to leaders Philadelphia Union is eight points, yet with the schedule still in their favor, the door is not closed.
Struggles on the road and a rival in form
The challenge is far from easy. Inter Miami has had trouble away from home, winning just once in the last four road matches. The defense has been fragile too, allowing three or more goals in six games outside Chase Stadium. History is another problem. In 12 clashes with NYCFC, Miami has only managed one win, with seven defeats and four draws. The most recent was a 2-2 tie earlier this season.
On the other side, New York City FC is flying. They have three straight victories, the latest against Charlotte FC, and reached 16 wins overall, which places them fourth with 53 points. Alonso Martínez has been the key man with 17 goals, while coach Pascal Jansen’s team chases history of their own. They can match the club’s record of 12 home wins in a season, something not seen since 2018. A victory could also move them into third place, adding even more weight to this meeting.