Article by Romeo Ene – Published Monday, March 23, 2026, 11:10 / Updated Monday, March 23, 2026 11:10
Inter Miamithe formation of the Argentine star Lionel Messi (38 years old), dramatically beat New York City 3-2 away in MLS Eastern Conference Stage 5. The footballer scored from a free kick and reached 901 goals in his career.
The first half was under the sign of balance and was decided by two Argentinian players. Gonzalo Lujan opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 4th minute, while Nicolas Mercau restored parity in the 17th minute.
VIDEO | Lionel Messi set the tone for the comeback with a free-kick goal
New York City took the lead in the 59th minute through Agustin Ojeda, the third Argentinian footballer to get on the scoresheet.
David Beckham's team restored parity in the 61st minute. Leo Messi brought the crowd to their feet with a free-kick, also taking advantage of Matt Freese's error, the hosts' goalkeeper.
The hosts also made a mistake by only putting two players in the wall, and Messi took advantage of this to reach 901 career goals. He has only six fixed phases to fruition to equal Juninho Pernambucano's record of 77.
The winning goal came in the 74th minute and it came from the ice of the Brazilian Micael. Following this victory, Inter Miami climbed to 3rd place in the Eastern Conference with 10 points after the first 5 matches. On the other hand, New York City remains at 2, also with 10.
For Messi and Inter Miami, the duel at home with Austin FC follows on April 5.
GOOOOOL! Another free-kick goal by him. 🔟🪄 pic.twitter.com/Jeb9L8CPB5
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) March 22, 2026
