NYCFC and Inter Miami Draw in Messi's Latest Match

Lionel Messi scores his 900th career goal, but Miami fails to secure a win on the road against NYCFC.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:03pm

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In a highly anticipated matchup between NYCFC and Inter Miami, the two teams played to a 1-1 draw at Yankee Stadium. Lionel Messi scored the 900th goal of his illustrious career, but Miami was unable to secure the victory despite the star power. NYCFC remains undefeated on the season and sits atop the Eastern Conference, while Miami continues to search for consistency after being eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions Cup earlier in the week.

Why it matters

This game was a key early-season clash between two of the top teams in MLS. NYCFC is looking to build on its strong start and solidify its position at the top of the East, while Miami is trying to regain its form from last season's MLS Cup triumph. Messi's milestone goal added extra intrigue, but Miami was ultimately unable to capitalize and earn a statement road win.

The details

Despite Messi's heroics, Miami struggled to create many clear-cut chances against NYCFC's stout defense. The home team took the lead early in the second half through a goal from Nicolás Fernández, but Messi equalized late to earn Miami a point on the road. Injuries to key players like Sergio Reguilón and Rodrigo De Paul hampered Miami's ability to control the match, and the team's reliance on Messi remains a concern as the season progresses.

  • The match took place on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 1 p.m. ET.
  • Lionel Messi scored the 900th goal of his career earlier in the week.

The players

Lionel Messi

The legendary Argentine forward, who recently scored the 900th goal of his illustrious career, is the star player for Inter Miami.

Nicolás Fernández

The NYCFC midfielder scored the opening goal of the match to give his team the lead.

Javier Mascherano

The manager of Inter Miami, who is tasked with guiding the team back to the level of last season's MLS Cup-winning squad.

Pascal Jansen

The NYCFC manager, whose team remains undefeated on the season and sits atop the Eastern Conference.

Dayne St. Clair

The Canadian goalkeeper for Inter Miami, who faces increased pressure due to the team's defensive struggles.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to work hard and find our form. Lionel's goal was special, but we need to start turning these draws into wins.”

— Javier Mascherano, Manager, Inter Miami

“Our defense has been the key to our success so far this season. Limiting chances for a player like Messi is no easy task, but the team executed the game plan well.”

— Pascal Jansen, Manager, NYCFC

What’s next

Inter Miami will look to bounce back when they open their new stadium in April, while NYCFC will aim to continue its undefeated start and solidify its position atop the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

This draw highlights the challenges Inter Miami faces in living up to the high expectations set by last season's MLS Cup triumph. The team's reliance on Lionel Messi remains a concern, and they must find a way to get more production from their supporting cast if they hope to return to the top of the league.