Lionel Messi’s late strike secures Inter Miami’s place in CONCACAF Champions Cup

Lionel Messi scored an 83rd-minute winner as Inter Miami came from behind to beat New England Revolution and secure qualification for the next CONCACAF Champions Cup.

The Argentina forward also created his side’s equaliser, setting up German Berterame to head home in the 69th minute after Daniel Gazdag had given New England the lead six minutes after half-time.

Messi then settled the contest with a left-footed finish after showcasing his dribbling ability, taking his tally to 26 goals in Major League Soccer this season.

The result moved Inter Miami up to second place in the Eastern Conference on 59 points, one ahead of New England Revolution, who remain on 58.

Inter Miami had gone into the match having failed to win either of their previous two games. Their recovery followed a goalless first half and came in a significant direct contest for second place in the standings.

The victory also confirmed Inter Miami’s participation in the next edition of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The competition is the last major trophy Messi is seeking to win, according to the source article.

Second place in the Eastern Conference is still to be decided, with the final positions remaining open until the last round of the regular season next week.

Inter Miami will finish their regular-season campaign against Charlotte, while New England Revolution will face Orlando City. Both matches are scheduled for 07 November 2026.

Inter Miami hold a one-point advantage over New England heading into those final fixtures, meaning the battle for the runners-up position will go to the closing round.