Lionel Messi lifted Inter Miami to a 2-1 victory over D.C. United on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in front of a crowd of over 70,000 at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
The Argentine superstar scored what proved to be the game-winning goal, securing Miami’s second consecutive win after a challenging start to the season. Inter Miami had previously suffered a 3-0 defeat to Los Angeles FC.
Rodrigo de Paul opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 17th minute, giving the Herons a 1-0 lead. Just ten minutes later, Messi extended the advantage with a delicate chip shot over D.C. United goalkeeper Sean Johnson, following a brilliant assist from Matteo Silvetti. You can observe [Lionel Messi nestles a delicate chip inside the far post](https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/1rnnham/dc_united_0_inter_miami_cf_2_lionel_messi_nestles/) on Reddit.
D.C. United managed to pull one back in the 75th minute, creating a tense finish, but Inter Miami’s defense held firm to secure the 2-1 result. The victory wasn’t their most dominant performance, but it demonstrated their resilience and ability to close out games.
Here’s a look at how Inter Miami’s players performed, according to [GOAL’s player ratings](https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/inter-miami-player-ratings-vs-d-c-united-lionel-messi-and-rodrigo-de-paul-deliver-as-herons-survive-late-scare/blta55799787b27dfee):
- Dayne St. Clair (5/10)
- Noah Allen (7/10)
- Micael (6/10)
- Maxi Falcon (7/10)
The win in Baltimore provides a significant boost for Inter Miami as they continue their MLS campaign. [The Houston Chronicle as well reported on Messi’s performance](https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/article/messi-lifts-inter-miami-past-d-c-united-2-1-21961873.php).
