Lionel Messi made a triumphant return to the Inter Miami squad, securing victory at the weekend with an impressive brace. The reigning champions should also create plenty of attacking chances against New York City 15 October 2026 — their opponents do not look like a serious test, especially with Inter Miami playing at home.
Inter Miami
A convincing win over D.C. United (4:0) consolidated Inter Miami's place in the Eastern Conference's top three. Leaders Nashville are already out of reach, with a 14-point gap, but Inter Miami should become the next club to secure a play-off berth. They have comfortably the best goalscoring record (68 goals in 28 games), while Messi and Luis Suárez have amassed a combined 38+15 in this regular season.
New York City
Things have not gone as smoothly for New York City. Their last three matches have yielded just one point, leaving them outside the play-off places. Overnight on Friday, they led by one goal at half-time and Chicago Fire were down to ten men, but New York City struggled badly in defence despite allowing only 1.09 xGA over 90 minutes. They have won just four of their 14 away matches.
Inter Miami vs New York City Prediction
In March, Inter Miami extended their winning run in head-to-head meetings to three matches (4:0, 5:1 and 3:2). New York City are motivated, but the gulf in quality leaves them unable to challenge for points. The hosts should score their customary 2-3 goals.
