Inter Miami vs D.C. United: A Historic Match
What does it mean for a team to win a match with a legendary player scoring a milestone goal? This question was answered on March 7, 2026, when Inter Miami triumphed over D.C. United with a score of 2-1 at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. The match was particularly significant as Lionel Messi scored his 899th career goal, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers in history.
Inter Miami opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Rodrigo De Paul collected the ball about 15 yards from the goal and struck a shot into the far side of the net. This early goal set the tone for the match, showcasing Inter Miami’s offensive capabilities. Messi’s goal, which came later in the game, was assisted by Mateo Silvetti, marking a pivotal moment in the match and adding to Messi’s impressive tally of 80 goals in just 91 matches with the club.
D.C. United managed to respond with a goal from Tai Baribo in the 75th minute, but it was not enough to change the outcome. The match ended with Inter Miami securing their second consecutive victory after a disappointing season opener against LAFC, where they lost 3-0. This win also highlighted Inter Miami’s status as the defending MLS Cup champions, reinforcing their competitive edge in the league.
The match drew a record crowd of 72,026 fans, the largest in D.C. United’s history, creating an electric atmosphere that both teams thrived in. Dayne St. Clair, Inter Miami’s goalkeeper, expressed the team’s appreciation for their supporters, stating, “It’s definitely nice to be able to go to away stadiums and know that you probably have more supporters than the actual home team.” This sentiment reflects the growing popularity of Inter Miami, especially with Messi on the roster.
Prior to the match, Messi and his teammates visited the White House as defending MLS Cup champions, an experience that undoubtedly added to the excitement surrounding the game. Javier Mascherano, a key figure in the team, commented on the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of their performance, emphasizing the need to build on their successes.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will next face Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on March 11, a match that will test their resilience and ability to maintain momentum. As they continue to build on their recent successes, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team develops throughout the season.
While the victory against D.C. United was a significant moment for Inter Miami, details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential injuries or player changes leading into their next match. As the season progresses, the dynamics of the team and their performance will be crucial in determining their path forward in both the MLS and international competitions.
