Messi, Dos Santos Lead Inter Miami to Comeback Win Over NYCFC

Inter Miami rallies from behind to defeat New York City FC 3-2 at Yankee Stadium

Mar. 22, 2026 at 10:50pm

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Lionel Messi scored the equalizer off a free kick in the second half and assisted on Micael dos Santos' game-winning goal as Inter Miami came from behind to beat New York City FC 3-2 on Sunday in New York. The victory pulls Inter Miami into a second-place tie in the Eastern Conference, handing NYCFC its first loss of the season.

Why it matters

This match-up between two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference featured star power and high drama, with Messi and NYCFC's Nicolás Fernández both finding the back of the net. The comeback win for Inter Miami demonstrates the team's resilience and ability to rally around its superstar Messi.

The details

Gonzalo Luján gave Inter Miami an early 1-0 lead, but NYCFC responded with goals from Nicolás Fernández and Agustín Ojeda to take a 2-1 advantage. Messi then scored the equalizer in the 61st minute before assisting on Micael dos Santos' game-winning header in the 74th minute.

  • Luján scored in the 4th minute to give Inter Miami the early lead.
  • Fernández scored in the 17th minute to pull NYCFC even.
  • Ojeda scored in the 59th minute to give NYCFC a 2-1 lead.
  • Messi scored the equalizer in the 61st minute.
  • Messi assisted on Micael dos Santos' game-winning goal in the 74th minute.

The players

Lionel Messi

The Argentine superstar scored the equalizer off a free kick and assisted on the game-winning goal for Inter Miami.

Micael dos Santos

The Inter Miami midfielder scored the game-winning goal in the 74th minute off an assist from Messi.

Nicolás Fernández

The NYCFC forward scored the team's first goal to pull them even in the 17th minute.

Agustín Ojeda

The NYCFC midfielder scored in the 59th minute to give his team a 2-1 lead.

Gonzalo Luján

The 21-year-old Inter Miami defender scored the team's first goal in the 4th minute.

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What they’re saying

“We showed a lot of heart and character to come back and get this important win on the road.”

— Lionel Messi

What’s next

Inter Miami will host Austin FC on April 4, while NYCFC will host St. Louis City on the same date.

The takeaway

This thrilling match-up between two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference showcased the star power and competitiveness of MLS, with Lionel Messi and Inter Miami demonstrating their ability to rally from behind and earn a crucial road victory.