BALTIMORE — Inter Miami continued their dominant run in the new Major League Soccer (MLS) season, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over DC United. Playing in front of a record-breaking crowd, the defending champions showcased their class as Lionel Messi moved to the brink of a historic career milestone.
A Grand Stage in Baltimore Due to the overwhelming demand to see Messi in action, the match was moved from DC United’s smaller Washington venue to a larger stadium in Baltimore. A staggering 72,026 spectators filled the arena, creating an electric atmosphere for the clash.
Clinical First Half Inter Miami started aggressively, dictated the tempo from the opening whistle. The deadlock was broken in the 17th minute when Rodrigo De Paul fired a powerful strike from inside the box to put the visitors ahead.
Just ten minutes later, Lionel Messi doubled the lead with a moment of pure magic. Receiving a precise pass from teammate Mateo Silvetti, Messi deftly chipped the ball over the goalkeeper’s head into the back of the net. This marked his 3rd goal in as many games this season and the 899th goal of his illustrious career.
Second Half Resilience DC United attempted a comeback in the second half, increasing the pressure on Miami’s defense. Their efforts paid off in the 75th minute when Tai Baribo pulled one back for the hosts. However, despite a frantic finish, Inter Miami held firm to secure all three points.
The Race to 900 At 38, Messi is now just one goal away from becoming only the second player in football history to reach the 900-career-goal milestone, a feat previously achieved only by Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Argentine maestro will have his next opportunity to hit the historic mark this coming Wednesday in the CONCACAF Champions Cup against Nashville.
League Standings With this victory, Inter Miami has accumulated 6 points from three matches, climbing to the third spot in the MLS league table.
