Lionel Messi failed to find the net against New York City FC on Wednesday, 14 October, but his influence helped Inter Miami secure a 2-0 victory and a place in the 2026 Major League Soccer playoffs.

The Argentine superstar provided the assist for Rodrigo De Paul's goal, while Germán Berterame also scored at Nu Stadium. The result guaranteed the defending MLS Cup champions a third consecutive postseason appearance, keeping their hopes of retaining the title alive.

Messi Makes His Presence Felt Without Scoring

Messi entered the match having scored twice in Miami's 4-0 victory over D.C. United, but this time he demonstrated his ability to influence proceedings without adding to his goalscoring tally.

The 39-year-old played a part in both first-half goals, helping Miami overcome a New York side determined to disrupt their attacking rhythm. Miami broke the deadlock in the 20th minute after a passing move involving several players.

Sergio Reguilón delivered the ball towards Messi, who found De Paul. The midfielder then supplied Luis Suárez, whose pass across the six-yard box allowed Berterame to finish from close range. Messi's most decisive contribution came during first-half stoppage time.

Berterame launched a counter-attack before finding Messi, who drew defenders towards him and cut the ball back to De Paul. The Argentine midfielder struck powerfully into the top corner, doubling Miami's advantage just before the interval.

It was Messi's 14th assist of the MLS regular season, underlining his importance as both a creator and goalscorer.

New York City's Late Chance Goes Begging

Despite trailing by two goals, New York City continued searching for a route back into the contest. The visitors created opportunities throughout the second half, although Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair remained difficult to beat.

Messi nearly added a goal of his own late in the match, but New York goalkeeper Matt Freese produced a save to deny him. De Paul also came close to extending the lead, with another effort pushed onto the woodwork.

New York's best opportunity arrived in the seventh minute of second-half stoppage time when Ian Fray fouled Talles Magno inside the penalty area. Nicolás Fernández Mercau stepped forward to take the penalty, but St. Clair pushed his attempt onto the post and away.

The save preserved Miami's second consecutive clean sheet and ensured the visitors finished without a goal.

Inter Miami Secure Another Shot at MLS Glory

The victory confirmed Miami's place in the playoffs for the third consecutive season and their fifth postseason appearance overall. For Messi, it presents another opportunity to pursue MLS Cup success after helping the club claim its first championship in 2025.

Miami also strengthened their position in the Eastern Conference standings as the regular season approaches its conclusion. Their next challenge comes against Atlanta United on Saturday, 17 October, as they seek to build momentum before the postseason.

Messi may not have scored against New York, but his contribution demonstrated why his influence extends beyond goals. His creativity and leadership remain crucial as Inter Miami prepare for another playoff campaign, where every decisive pass could prove as valuable as a goal.