On Sunday, Inter Miami CF celebrated their inaugural win at the Nu Stadium by defeating the Portland Timbers 2-0 in a Major League Soccer match. This victory ended a four-game winless streak at their new home venue.
The long-awaited victory was a significant milestone for the fans, marking the team's first clean sheet at home during the 2026 season after suffering three losses and one draw in the new stadium.
The standout performer was Lionel Messi, who shone with a goal and an assist, extending his streak to four consecutive league matches with at least two direct goal contributions.
The opening goal came in the 31st minute from a coordinated team effort. Messi initiated the play near midfield, passing to Luis Suárez, culminating in Telasco Segovia delivering a backheel pass to the captain, who then scored past goalkeeper James Pantemis.
This assist marked Segovia's sixth of the season, making him the team leader in this category.
Just ten minutes later, Messi again took center stage, dribbling past multiple defenders in the penalty area to set up Germán Berterame for the final 2-0 scoreline.
At halftime, Miami enjoyed a comfortable lead, supported by their statistics: 12 shots with five on target compared to Portland's nine shots, only one of which was on goal.
In the second half, the home team focused on defending their lead, although they still created additional opportunities through counterattacks.
By the end of the match, Miami had amassed 20 shots, nine on target, and an expected goals tally of 3.0, while Portland managed only 0.82 with 16 shots.
As the referee signaled the end of the match, the crowd erupted in celebration, finally witnessing their first victory at the stadium.
The Nu Stadium opened on April 4, 2026, with a 2-2 draw against Austin FC, a match in which Messi scored the stadium's first-ever goal, marking the 903rd of his professional career.
Situated in Miami Freedom Park on the site of the former Melreese golf course, the stadium can accommodate 26,700 spectators and is named after Nubank following a sponsorship agreement announced in March 2026.
In the 2026 season, Messi has accumulated 12 goals and six assists in 13 league matches, further cementing his role as the team's driving force.
Inter Miami currently sits second in the Eastern Conference with 25 points, two points shy of the leading Nashville SC, which has 27 points.
Messi extended his contract with the club until 2028 in October 2025, ensuring his presence at the new stadium for the upcoming years.
The team's next fixture before the World Cup break is scheduled for Sunday against the Philadelphia Union at 7 p.m.
Key Insights on Inter Miami's Victory
Who was the standout player in Inter Miami's win?
Lionel Messi was the standout player, contributing a goal and an assist to secure the victory.
What was the significance of this win for Inter Miami?
This victory was significant as it ended a four-game winless streak at their new home, Nu Stadium, and marked their first clean sheet at home in the 2026 season.
What is the capacity of the Nu Stadium?
The Nu Stadium can hold up to 26,700 spectators.