Inter Miami CF clinched a 2026 MLS playoff spot with a 2-0 victory over New York City FC on Wednesday night. German Berterame opened the scoring early, tapping in a goal assisted by Luis Suarez past NYCFC keeper Matthew Freese. Rodrigo De Paul extended the lead before halftime, connecting with Lionel Messi just outside the box and blasting the ball into the upper left corner.
The win propels Inter Miami to second place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points from 29 games, behind Nashville SC. Miami coach Cristian 'Kily' Gonzalez praised the team's willingness to adopt his vision, noting the squad addressed training mistakes. Goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair made a key late save to preserve a clean sheet.
The Herons, who won the 2025 MLS Cup, missed the playoffs in Messi's debut season of 2023 but have qualified each year since. Messi currently leads the Golden Boot rankings with 23 goals and tops the assist charts with 14. NYCFC hosts LAFC next, while Miami travels to face Atlanta United on Saturday.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing