Lionel Messi’s landmark strike inspired Inter Miami to a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory, handing New York City FC their first defeat of the MLS season.
LIONEL MESSI scored his 901st career goal to help Inter Miami secure a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over New York City FC on Sunday.
The result handed NYCFC their first defeat of the Major League Soccer season.
Messi netted a stunning 61st-minute equaliser from a free-kick, before Brazilian defender Micael headed home the winner 13 minutes later.
The victory provided a morale boost for Miami, who were eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions Cup last Wednesday.
Argentine defender Gonzalo Lujan had opened the scoring for the visitors with a right-footed shot in the fourth minute.
NYCFC’s Nicolas Fernandez replied with a superb free-kick of his own in the 17th minute to level the match.
Messi was denied several times in the first half, including a shot that struck the crossbar just before the interval.
The hosts took the lead again in the 59th minute through Agustín Ojeda, who finished a fine through ball from Maxi Moralez.
Messi was then fouled by NYCFC’s Aiden O’Neill to earn the decisive free-kick, which he smashed home with his left foot.
Micael sealed the three points with a powerful header from Noah Allen’s cross in the 74th minute.
The win improved Miami’s record to three wins, one draw and one loss this season.
NYCFC fell to three wins and one defeat.
