LIONEL MESSI SCORES 901ST GOAL AS INTER MIAMI HANDS NYCFC FIRST LOSS OF MLS SEASON

March 22, 2026

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Agency Report

Lionel Messi scored his 901st career goal as Inter Miami stunned New York City FC 3-2 on Sunday, handing the hosts their first loss of the Major League Soccer season.

Argentine defender Gonzalo Lujan opened the scoring for Miami in the fourth minute with a precise right-foot shot into the lower right corner. Nicolas Fernandez equalised for NYCFC in the 17th minute with a powerful left-foot free kick into the upper left corner.

New York regained the lead in the 59th minute through Agustín Ojeda, who converted a through ball from Maxi Moralez into the bottom right corner.

Messi restored parity in the 61st minute with a stunning left-footed free-kick after being fouled by Aiden O’Neill, marking his 901st career goal. Brazilian defender Micael then secured the win for Inter Miami in the 74th minute, heading home a cross from Noah Allen.

The victory improves Inter Miami’s record to 3-1-1, while NYCFC falls to 3-1. Messi had earlier missed multiple opportunities in the first half, including a 42nd-minute shot that struck the crossbar and a fast break in the 27th minute, before ultimately leaving his mark on the game.

This result comes after Miami’s recent exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup following a draw with Nashville, highlighting Messi’s immediate impact in league play.