Inter Miami seal MLS playoff spot with 4-0 win over NYCFC

Inter Miami clinched a spot in the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs with a 4-0 victory over New York City FC at Citi Field in Queens on Wednesday night, a result powered by Lionel Messi, who scored twice and set up the opening goal. The win not only ended NYCFC’s three-game winning streak but also strengthened Miami’s bid to defend the Supporters Shield as the regular season heads into its final weeks.

Baltasar Rodríguez broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute after a midfield interception and a precise through ball from Messi. Sergio Busquets and Messi combined again in the second half as Messi doubled the lead with a delicate chip over goalkeeper Matt Freese in the 74th minute. Luis Suárez, making his return from a three-game suspension, converted a penalty in the 83rd minute before Messi finished off the night with a low right-footed strike in the 86th, completing a dominant performance. Goalkeeper Óscar Ustari recorded a clean sheet for Miami.

Messi’s contributions extended his remarkable season. League statistics show the 38-year-old moved to the top of the MLS scoring charts with 24 goals and is credited with 37 goal contributions in 2025, making him the first player in MLS history to...