At 39, Lionel Messi continues to remind football fans why he remains one of the game’s most influential players. On Sunday, November 1, the Argentine superstar delivered another decisive performance, helping Inter Miami overturn a deficit to defeat New England Revolution 2-1 in a crucial Major League Soccer encounter.
With an assist and a brilliant late winner, Messi secured three valuable points for Miami, moving the club into second place in the Eastern Conference with just one regular-season match remaining.
New England Take the Lead After Goalless First Half
The opening 45 minutes ended without a goal as both teams struggled to break through.
However, New England finally found the breakthrough in the 53rd minute.
Peyton Miller advanced down the right flank before delivering a cut-back into the penalty area. Ilay Feingold redirected the ball with a backheel, allowing Daniel Gazdag to fire home.
The goal put Miami under pressure as New England looked to protect its advantage.
Miami nearly equalised shortly after the hour mark. Messi forced goalkeeper Matt Turner into a save before German Berterame attempted to score from the rebound. However, Brooklyn Raines cleared the effort off the line.
Messi Creates Equaliser With Unusual Assist
Miami’s persistence paid off in the 69th minute.
Telasco Segovia delivered a high ball into the penalty area, where Messi was running between two defenders.
In an unusual moment, Messi redirected the ball backwards with his head, sending it into Berterame’s path.
The forward finished the opportunity to level the score at 1-1.
The improvised assist demonstrated Messi’s awareness and ability to create chances even in difficult situations.
Messi Scores Stunning Winner in 83rd Minute
With seven minutes of regular time remaining, Messi produced the match-winning moment.
Receiving the ball outside the penalty area, he turned sharply and moved past three New England defenders.
He then struck a low left-footed shot into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Matt Turner unable to respond.
The goal completed Miami’s comeback and gave Messi another memorable contribution to the club’s season.
New England appeared to equalise shortly afterwards when Miami defender Ian Fray headed the ball into his own net.
However, a video review ruled out the goal because of an offside infringement involving Luca Langoni.
Miami held on to secure the victory.
Inter Miami Move Closer to Playoff Advantage
The result lifted Inter Miami one point above New England into second place in the Eastern Conference.
Miami now have one regular-season match remaining against Charlotte on Saturday.
A victory would guarantee home advantage through the Conference Finals, giving the club an important advantage during the playoffs.
The win also secured Miami’s qualification for the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Elsewhere, Nashville celebrated winning the Supporters’ Shield after reaching 74 points, equalling the MLS record with one match remaining.
Messi Remains Miami’s Biggest Difference Maker
As the MLS season approaches its decisive stages, Messi’s influence remains central to Miami’s ambitions.
His performance against New England showed how quickly he can change a match through creativity, movement and finishing.
With the playoffs approaching, Miami will hope its captain can continue delivering when the pressure increases.
For Inter Miami, the comeback was worth three points. For Messi, it was another reminder that even at 39, he can still decide a match almost single-handedly.
