Messi and Inter Miami Secure Crucial Win After Champions Cup Exit

Late heroics from goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair help Miami defend MLS Cup title defense

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:19pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Inter Miami CF secured a crucial 1-0 win over New York City FC in MLS play, just days after being eliminated from the Champions Cup tournament. The win was not without drama, as NYCFC threatened to equalize late, but Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair made a spectacular save in stoppage time to preserve the victory.

Why it matters

Despite the disappointment of their Champions Cup exit, Inter Miami have shown resilience in bouncing back with a crucial league win as they look to defend their MLS Cup title from last season. The performance of goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, who is expected to start for Canada at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, was also a bright spot for the club.

The details

Inter Miami took the lead early in the second half through an unspecified goalscorer. NYCFC pushed hard for an equalizer late on, but St. Clair's heroics in goal ensured Miami held on for all three points.

  • The match took place on March 22, 2026.
  • Miami have now won 3 out of their first 5 league matches this season.

The players

Lionel Messi

Superstar forward who joined Inter Miami in the offseason.

Dayne St. Clair

Goalkeeper for Inter Miami who is expected to start for Canada at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Javier Mascherano

Head coach of Inter Miami.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Sometimes you win, and the people make you believe you are beautiful. When you lose, you are a monster. For me, it is the same … to be calm and trust in my job, and believe in the things we are working toward, and keep going.”

— Javier Mascherano, Head Coach, Inter Miami

What’s next

Inter Miami will look to build on this crucial win as they head into the March international break, aiming to defend their MLS Cup title from last season.

The takeaway

Despite the disappointment of their Champions Cup exit, Inter Miami have shown their resilience by bouncing back with a crucial league win, thanks in large part to the heroics of goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. The club will look to carry this momentum forward as they seek to defend their MLS Cup title.