Overview

• Lionel Messi provided two assists, including a crucial stoppage-time pass to Telasco Segovia, helping Inter Miami secure a 2-2 draw in their MLS season opener against New York City FC.
• Inter Miami played most of the match with 10 players after Tomas Aviles was sent off with a red card in the 23rd minute for denying a goal-scoring opportunity.
• New York City FC capitalized on defensive errors, with goals from Mitja Ilenic and Alonso Martinez, but Messi's late play ensured Miami avoided defeat.
• Messi became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 40 goal contributions, achieving the milestone in just 26 games with 21 goals and 20 assists.
• After the match, Messi sparked controversy by grabbing NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy by the neck, an incident that is expected to be reviewed by the MLS disciplinary committee.