Inter Miami Defeats D.C. United 2-1 as Messi Nears 900th Career Goal
Baltimore – Inter Miami CF secured a 2-1 victory over D.C. United on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. Lionel Messi scored his 899th career goal, bringing him within one goal of a historic milestone.
Match Highlights
The match, played before a record-setting crowd of 72,026 – the largest in D.C. United’s history and a top 10 standalone crowd all-time in MLS – saw Inter Miami seize an early lead. Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring in the 17th minute, followed by Messi’s goal in the 27th minute.
Messi’s goal came off a stellar pass from Mateo Silvetti, floating the ball over the head of D.C. United goalkeeper Sean Johnson. Despite dominating possession early, Inter Miami faced a more challenging second half.
Second-Half Battle
D.C. United managed to pull one back in the 75th minute when Tai Baribo scored a rebound off a shot from Jackson Hopkins that was deflected by Inter Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. Inter Miami’s defense held strong in the closing moments, securing the 2-1 win.
Coach Mascherano’s Perspective
“I believe we have to appreciate the positive things,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano after the match. “Three games away, we’ve achieved two victories. There’s a lot to improve, but it’s always better to improve from a victory.”
Team Lineups
D.C. United: Sean Johnson. Silvan Hefti, Lucas Bartlett, Kye Rowles, Keisuke Kurokawa; Matti Peltola, Brandon Servania; Gabriel Pirani, Jackson Hopkins, Peglow; Or Baribo.
Inter Miami: Dayne St. Clair; Noah Allen, Micael, Maximiliano Falcon, Facundo Mura; Yannick Bright, Rodrigo De Paul; Mateo Silvetti, Telasco Segovia, Lionel Messi; German Berterame.
Current Standings
With this victory, Inter Miami moves to third place in the MLS Eastern Conference with 6 points. D.C. United remains in seventh place with 3 points.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami continues its road trip as it awaits the April 4 opening of its new venue, Nu Stadium at Miami Freedom Park. Messi will have the opportunity to reach his 900th career goal in an upcoming match.