Messi’s Inter Miami Lose 2-0 to New York Red Bulls

HARRISON, NJ — Lionel Messi came off the bench in the second half, but Inter Miami CF could not avoid a 2-0 defeat to the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer action on Saturday night. An early own goal by Miami midfielder Casemiro gave the Red Bulls the lead, while Emil Forsberg scored in second-half stoppage time to secure the victory at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey. The defeat ended Miami’s three-game winning streak and gave the Red Bulls valuable points in their push for an MLS playoff place.

The Red Bulls took the lead in the seventh minute when Inter Miami midfielder Casemiro inadvertently put the ball into his own net. The early goal gave New York confidence, and the home side worked to protect its advantage while limiting Miami’s attacking opportunities. Inter Miami enjoyed more possession but struggled to turn that control into clear scoring chances. Red Bulls goalkeeper Ethan Horvath made two saves to help preserve the clean sheet.

Miami introduced Lionel Messi in the 56th minute, with the Argentine superstar replacing Riquelme Fillipi. The substitution was intended to provide an attacking spark as Inter Miami searched for an equalizer. However, the visitors were unable to break through New York’s defense. Messi attempted to influence the game after entering, but Miami could not find the goal it needed to get back into the contest.

The Red Bulls secured the result in the first minute of second-half stoppage time. Emil Forsberg, who had entered the match as a substitute in the 85th minute, scored after receiving assistance from Cameron Harper and Ronald Donkor. The late strike made it 2-0 and ensured that New York finished the match with all three points. The result was particularly important for the Red Bulls, who entered the match fighting to remain above the Eastern Conference playoff line.

Inter Miami controlled 62 percent of possession but failed to convert that advantage into a goal. New York’s disciplined defense and effective goalkeeping proved decisive. Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair also made several saves, but the visitors could not overcome the early own goal and Forsberg’s late finish. Before the match, Messi had recorded 25 goals and 15 assists in the 2026 MLS regular season. He was unable to add to those totals against New York.

Inter Miami will look to bounce back when they host FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, October 28. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Miami Freedom Park. With the regular season approaching its conclusion, Miami will be looking to regain momentum and strengthen its position ahead of the MLS playoffs. The upcoming match will provide Messi and his teammates with an opportunity to respond after a disappointing performance in New Jersey.

Match Summary
Final score: New York Red Bulls 2-0 Inter Miami CF

Goals:
Casemiro (own goal), 7th minute
Emil Forsberg, 90+1

Next Match: Inter Miami CF vs. FC Cincinnati
Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2026
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Miami Freedom Park, Miami, Florida