Inter Miami quickly gained an advantage over hosts DC United. Midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Yannick Bright effectively distributed the ball, contributing significantly to a 65% possession rate. Telasco Segovia and Mateo Silvetti consistently moved up and down the flanks, strongly supporting Lionel Messi and striker German Berterame.
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De Paul celebrates the opening goal in Inter Miami's 2-1 victory over DC United in the third round of MLS on 7/3. *Photo: Inter Miami* |
In the 17th minute, Inter Miami converted their advantage into the opening goal. De Paul broke free on the right side of the penalty area and fired a shot into the top corner, beating goalkeeper Sean Johnson.
Ten minutes later, Inter Miami further asserted their dominance. Messi surged into the penalty area to receive a through ball from a teammate, then chipped the ball over goalkeeper Johnson to double the lead.
The 38-year-old forward also increased his career tally to 899 goals. He is now just one goal shy of becoming the second player in professional football history to reach the 900-goal mark. Cristiano Ronaldo currently leads with a record 965 goals.
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Messi celebrates doubling the lead in the victory against DC United in the third round of MLS on the evening of 7/3. *Photo: Inter Miami* |
DC United started better after halftime. The home team's offense notably improved with the introduction of substitute Louis Munteanu. In the 75th minute, after Jackson Hopkins' shot rebounded off goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, Tai Baribo scored on the follow-up, narrowing the score to 1-2 for DC United.
The match became more unpredictable in the final 20 minutes. DC United improved their game, having previously controlled only 30% of possession. They also had more shots, with 10 attempts compared to Inter Miami's 6. However, the visiting team's defense held firm until the end to secure the result.
Inter Miami continues their recovery in form. Previously, Messi and his teammates lost 0-3 to Los Angeles FC in their MLS 2026 season opener, but defeated Orlando City 4-2 in the second round. Their first three matches were all played away from home.
Thanh Quy
