Inter Miami continued their encouraging start to the new Major League Soccer season with a 2–1 victory over DC United on Saturday, in a match that attracted a record attendance eager to watch Lionel Messi. Owing to unprecedented demand for tickets, the fixture was moved from DC United’s regular stadium in Washington to a much larger venue in Baltimore.
The decision proved justified as 72,026 spectators packed the stadium, creating a vibrant atmosphere for a contest dominated for long periods by the visiting side. The match once again highlighted the enduring brilliance of Messi, who scored his 899th career goal and moved within one strike of the historic 900-goal milestone.
Should he reach that landmark, Messi would become only the second male footballer in history to achieve the feat, following Cristiano Ronaldo.
Early Control by Inter Miami
Inter Miami imposed themselves early in the match and established a commanding two-goal lead during the first half.
The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute when Rodrigo De Paul finished off a flowing attacking move. Receiving the ball roughly 15 yards from goal inside the penalty area, the Argentine midfielder placed a composed shot into the far corner, giving the visitors a deserved lead.
Ten minutes later, Messi provided a moment of characteristic quality. After collecting a precise pass from Mateo Silvetti, the Argentine forward lifted the ball delicately over the advancing goalkeeper and into the net. The goal, executed with remarkable calmness, was his third in three matches this season and the 899th of his illustrious career.
DC United Fight Back
DC United responded with greater urgency in the second half, pushing forward in search of a way back into the match. Their persistence paid off in the 75th minute when Tai Baribo found the net to narrow the deficit and revive hopes among the home supporters.
Despite the late pressure, Inter Miami maintained defensive discipline and composure in the closing stages. The visitors successfully protected their lead until the final whistle, securing an important away victory and their second consecutive win of the season.
Match Summary
| Category | DC United | Inter Miami |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 1 | 2 |
| Goal Scorers | Tai Baribo (75’) | Rodrigo De Paul (17’), Lionel Messi (27’) |
| Attendance | – | 72,026 |
| Venue | Baltimore Stadium | Baltimore Stadium |
Eventful Week for the Club
The victory concluded a memorable week for Inter Miami and its star-studded squad. Just two days prior to the match, the entire team visited the White House in Washington, where they met United States President Donald Trump.
The visit drew widespread attention and symbolised the growing global influence of the club since Messi’s arrival. Following the high-profile meeting, the players returned to competitive action and delivered a disciplined performance to secure another valuable result.
Historic Milestone Within Reach
At 38 years of age, Messi continues to demonstrate exceptional consistency and longevity. His extraordinary tally of 899 goals has been accumulated across club and international competitions during a career spanning more than two decades.
The legendary forward could reach the historic 900-goal milestone as early as Wednesday when Inter Miami face Nashville in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Achieving the mark would further strengthen his legacy as one of the greatest goal scorers in the history of football.
Inter Miami’s Early Season Form
Inter Miami’s campaign began with a disappointing 3–0 defeat against Los Angeles FC. However, the team quickly recovered, recording victories over Orlando City and DC United.
| Match | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles FC vs Inter Miami | 3–0 Loss | Major League Soccer |
| Inter Miami vs Orlando City | Win | Major League Soccer |
| DC United vs Inter Miami | 1–2 Win | Major League Soccer |
With six points from three matches, Inter Miami currently occupy third place in the league standings. If the team continues to build momentum and Messi maintains his scoring form, the club could soon emerge as a strong contender for the MLS title while their captain stands on the brink of another historic achievement.
