Lionel Messi's Two Assists Salvage Draw for 10-Man Inter Miami in MLS Opener

Inter Miami ties New York City FC 2-2 despite playing with 10 men for over an hour, as Messi's brilliance shines through with two assists and a controversial post-match incident.

Lionel Messi provided two assists, including a crucial stoppage-time pass to Telasco Segovia, helping Inter Miami secure a 2-2 draw in their MLS season opener against New York City FC.
Inter Miami played most of the match with 10 players after Tomas Aviles was sent off with a red card in the 23rd minute for denying a goal-scoring opportunity.
New York City FC capitalized on defensive errors, with goals from Mitja Ilenic and Alonso Martinez, but Messi's late play ensured Miami avoided defeat.
Messi became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 40 goal contributions, achieving the milestone in just 26 games with 21 goals and 20 assists.
After the match, Messi sparked controversy by grabbing NYCFC assistant coach Mehdi Ballouchy by the neck, an incident that is expected to be reviewed by the MLS disciplinary committee.