Introduction
Inter Miami journey to setting a new Major League Soccer (MLS) points record hit a major hurdle as they drew 1-1 against New York City FC. Despite Lionel Messi’s efforts, Miami’s late-game slip allowed New York to score a stoppage-time equalizer. This result puts Miami’s goal of breaking the all-time points record in jeopardy, leaving them with a lot of work to do in their final matches of the season.
Miami’s Quest for the Record
Inter Miami entered the match aiming to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in MLS history by breaking New England Revolution’s 2021 record of 73 points in a single season. With just four games remaining, Miami needed 10 points to surpass the record. However, the draw against New York City FC leaves them with only 64 points after 30 games. Now, Gerardo Martino’s team must collect at least nine points from the remaining 12 available to tie the record, or 10 points to surpass it.
Messi’s Impact
Lionel Messi has been pivotal for Inter Miami since his arrival, and this match was no different. The Argentine star was involved in the game from the outset, threatening New York’s defense with his trademark free-kicks and sharp passes. In the fourth minute, Messi almost put Miami ahead with a free-kick that flew just wide of the post, showcasing his playmaking ability.
Later in the match, Messi created Miami’s only goal with a beautiful pass out wide to Jordi Alba. The former Barcelona teammate then set up Ecuadorian striker Leonardo Campana, who finished the move with a close-range shot to give Miami a 1-0 lead in the 75th minute. It seemed like Miami would secure another win, but their inability to hold on to the lead proved costly.
New York’s Equalizer
New York City FC, who had been knocking on Miami’s door throughout the match, finally found their reward in stoppage time. Defender James Sands rose above Miami’s defense in the 95th minute to meet a Santiago Rodriguez corner with a powerful header. His goal secured a well-deserved point for the home team, leaving Miami with disappointment and frustration as they let a vital win slip away in the dying moments.
New York had created several good chances earlier in the game, and they could have taken the lead had it not been for some wasteful finishing. In the 11th minute, a free-kick from Rodriguez hit the post, and the ball almost rebounded into the net off Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender. Then, Keaton Parks missed a golden opportunity just after halftime, sending his shot wide with the goal wide open.
Missed Opportunities for Miami
Inter Miami’s inability to capitalize on their chances was one of the reasons they couldn’t secure the victory. Although Messi continued to orchestrate the attack, the team struggled to finish off their opportunities. After Campana’s goal in the 75th minute, Miami seemed to relax and let their guard down, allowing New York to push forward in search of the equalizer. This lapse in focus ultimately cost them the win and valuable points.
Defensive Lapses
Miami’s defense, which had held strong for much of the game, finally cracked under pressure in stoppage time. The set-piece that led to New York’s equalizer was a result of a last-minute corner, where Miami’s defense was caught off-guard. Sands’ header was unstoppable, and Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender could do little to prevent the goal.
This defensive lapse is something that Miami will need to address if they hope to achieve their goal of breaking the points record. While the team’s attacking firepower has been their strength, the defense has shown vulnerabilities in key moments throughout the season.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
With only four matches left in the regular season, the pressure is now on Inter Miami to bounce back and collect maximum points. Their next games will be crucial in determining whether they can break New England’s all-time points record. Messi and his teammates must remain focused and ensure they capitalize on their scoring opportunities while tightening up defensively to avoid conceding late goals.
If Miami can return to winning ways in their remaining fixtures, the record is still within reach. However, another slip-up like this could see their hopes of making history disappear.
Conclusion
Inter Miami’s 1-1 draw against New York City FC was a major blow to their quest for MLS glory. While Lionel Messi’s brilliance continues to shine, the team’s inability to close out games may cost them a chance at breaking the all-time points record. With just a few matches left, every point is crucial. Miami must now regroup and push forward if they want to write their names in the record books. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
