Dramatic 2-2 Draw Between Inter Miami CF and NYCFC in MLS Season Opener

2025-03-02

Inter Miami CF and New York City FC (NYCFC) played to a dramatic 2-2 draw in their 2025 MLS season opener at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The match, held on February 22, saw Inter Miami rally late with a stoppage-time equalizer despite playing over half the game with 10 men.

The Herons took an early lead in the fifth minute when Lionel Messi assisted Tomás Avilés for the opening goal. However, Avilés was sent off in the 23rd minute after a foul on NYCFC’s Alonso Martínez, reducing Miami to 10 players. NYCFC capitalized on the advantage, with Mitja Ilenič equalizing in the 26th minute through a clever free-kick routine. Martínez then put NYCFC ahead in the 56th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Jordi Alba.

Despite being undermanned, Inter Miami fought back, with Messi orchestrating a late-game comeback. In the 100th minute, Messi set up new signing Telasco Segovia for a stunning chipped finish, leveling the score at 2-2. The goal marked Messi’s second assist of the night, making him the fastest player in MLS history to reach 40 regular-season goal contributions in just 26 games.

NYCFC, playing without midfield linchpin Santiago Rodríguez after his late transfer to Botafogo, showed resilience but couldn’t hold on for the win. The draw extends NYCFC’s winless streak in season openers to seven years, while Inter Miami salvaged a point in their first match as reigning Supporters’ Shield champions.

Both teams now turn their attention to upcoming fixtures. Inter Miami will face Houston Dynamo in their next MLS match, while NYCFC prepares for a clash with Western Conference leaders. The result sets the stage for an intense MLS season as both teams aim to build on their performances.

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