The two teams played an open, attacking game, creating a thrilling encounter at Yankee Stadium on 22/3. Gonzalo Lujan opened the scoring for Inter Miami, but New York City quickly responded with goals from Nicolas Fernandez and Agustin Ojeda, giving them the lead.

As Inter Miami faced difficulties, Messi delivered a moment of brilliance. In the 61st minute, from a free-kick approximately 25 meters out, the Argentine star's shot deflected off the wall, changing direction and leaving the New York City goalkeeper with no chance. This marked Messi's 901st career goal; he had previously reached 900 goals in a 1-1 draw against Nashville in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 on 18/3.

Messi nearly scored a second goal in the 73rd minute, after a quick burst of speed to the edge of the box, curling a left-footed shot just wide of the post. However, Inter Miami did not have to wait long for the winning goal. Defender Micael shone with a header into the far corner in the very next attack, sealing the 3-2 victory.

Following the match, coach Javier Mascherano emphasized Messi's critical role for Inter Miami, stating that the captain would not be rested during the crucial period leading up to the 2026 World Cup. "We always try to take the best care of him possible," Mascherano said. "But Messi is the type of player who feels most comfortable playing, and that is also good for his physical condition."

The 41-year-old coach confirmed Messi would join the Argentina national team immediately after the match. The coaching staff plans to monitor his physical condition daily upon his return. "Clearly, Messi is a vital factor if we want to achieve our goals. Frankly, without him, it's almost impossible," Mascherano stated.

Lionel Messi receives the man of the match award. *Photo: Inter Miami*

Despite acknowledging that Messi is entering the final stage before the World Cup, Mascherano stressed that all decisions regarding the 38-year-old superstar's playing time are based on continuous communication between both parties to ensure his optimal physical condition. After being eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions Cup by Nashville SC, Inter Miami will only compete in Major League Soccer (MLS) during the period leading up to the World Cup. According to Mascherano, the upcoming schedule is not too demanding, mainly one match per week, allowing Messi to maintain his form.

Messi has not yet confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Cup, having repeatedly stressed that he will make a decision based on his physical condition before the tournament takes place in North America in the summer. Nevertheless, he has been called up for the upcoming international break, with Argentina scheduled to play friendly matches against Mauritania on 27/3 and Zambia on 31/3.

Previously, Argentina was scheduled to play Spain in the Intercontinental Supercup in Qatar in March. However, the plan was canceled due to regional conflict. The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) attempted to find an alternative, but no agreement was reached.

Hong Duy