Inter Miami CF started their 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against New York City FC at Chase Stadium. Despite facing several challenges, including an early red card and injuries, the team demonstrated strong determination. Head coach Javier Mascherano praised his players for their resilience and fighting spirit, emphasizing the “soul” of the team.
A Strong Start for Inter Miami
The match began on a promising note for Inter Miami. Just five minutes into the game, Tomás Avilés scored the opening goal after receiving a precise pass from Lionel Messi. The early lead gave Miami momentum, but their joy was short-lived as trouble soon followed.
Only five minutes later, new signing Fafà Picault suffered an injury and had to leave the field. This forced the team to make an early substitution, disrupting their strategy. However, the real setback came soon after when Avilés committed a foul just outside the penalty box. The referee immediately showed him a red card, leaving Inter Miami with only ten players for the remainder of the match.
Tactical Adjustments and Injury Concerns
With Avilés sent off, Mascherano had to make quick adjustments. Playing with ten men against a strong opponent like New York City FC was not easy. Inter Miami tried to hold their defense together, but another setback came when Marcelo Weigandt suffered an injury. This forced the team to make another substitution, further complicating their situation.
Taking advantage of Miami’s difficulties, NYCFC quickly responded. Before the first half ended, Mitja Ilenic scored the equalizer for the visitors. Inter Miami struggled to keep possession and control the game as NYCFC gained confidence. Early in the second half, Alonso Martínez found the back of the net, giving NYCFC a 2-1 lead.
At this point, Miami’s situation looked difficult. They were playing with one less player, key players were injured, and their opponents were dominating possession. Despite these challenges, Miami refused to give up.
Lionel Messi Leads Miami’s Comeback
As the match reached its final moments, Miami showed incredible determination. They continued to attack whenever they had a chance, searching for an equalizer. Lionel Messi, who had already assisted the first goal, stepped up once again when the team needed him the most.
Deep into stoppage time, Messi delivered a brilliant pass to Telasco Segovia, who made no mistake in scoring the equalizer. The stadium erupted in celebration as Miami secured a dramatic 2-2 draw. It was a moment of relief and joy for the team and their fans.
After the game, Mascherano spoke about the team’s resilience. He praised the players for their effort and never-give-up attitude, highlighting how they overcame several challenges.
Mascherano’s Thoughts on the Match
Speaking to the media after the game, Mascherano expressed his pride in the team. “In the end, the team managed to score because it has soul and heart,” he said. “I think we have to focus on the positive things. Less than 72 hours ago, we played in extreme weather conditions at minus 24 degrees, and today, the players ran tirelessly. We have to keep overcoming the challenges that come our way.”
The coach acknowledged that Miami deserved a better result and even believed his team should have won. However, he remained optimistic, focusing on the positives rather than the difficulties. “Beyond the final score, I saw a lot of good things from the team,” he added. “We are alive, and we will keep fighting.”
Scheduling Challenges and Player Fatigue
Mascherano also addressed the difficulties of playing matches in quick succession. He revealed that Inter Miami had requested to move the match against NYCFC to Sunday to allow players more rest after their Concacaf Champions Cup game against Sporting Kansas City just 72 hours earlier. However, the league did not approve the request.
“This is what happens sometimes when the schedule is tight,” Mascherano explained. “We had no control over the extreme cold conditions in Kansas, where we played in temperatures below minus 20 degrees. Then, we had to travel for three hours and arrived at five in the morning. Despite all of this, the players gave everything they had on the field.”
The coach confirmed that medical tests would be conducted to assess the injuries of Picault and Weigandt. He acknowledged that such situations are difficult to avoid when players are asked to compete in high-intensity games with little recovery time.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges in their opening match, Inter Miami showed great character. They managed to secure a valuable point even when they were a man down for most of the game. Messi once again proved his importance to the team, playing a key role in both goals.
The draw against NYCFC highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of Miami. While their fighting spirit was commendable, they will need to work on their discipline and defense. Receiving a red card so early in the match made things difficult, and they must ensure better decision-making in future games.
Mascherano’s leadership and belief in his team will be crucial as they move forward in the season. With players like Messi leading the attack, Miami has the potential to be a strong contender. However, they must manage their schedule carefully to avoid injuries and fatigue.