Inter Miami CF beat New York City FC 2-0 to win consecutive Major League Soccer matches for the first time since July. The Herons kept their hold on second place in the Eastern Conference with the playoffs approaching.
Miami struck first in the 30s after a quick passing sequence. Lionel Messi laid the ball off to Rodrigo De Paul, who passed to Luis Suárez, and Suárez’s cross found Germán Berterame for a tap-in. Just before halftime, Messi threaded a trivela pass into the six-yard box, and De Paul finished with his right foot to make it 2-0.
NYCFC controlled possession for long stretches and created chances in the second half, including a shot that drifted wide of the right post. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made several saves to keep his side in the match. Miami hit the left post in the closing minutes, but the Herons did not add a third goal.
The biggest moment came in the final minute, when Ian Fray fouled an opponent inside the box and NYCFC was awarded a penalty. St. Clair dove to his right and stopped the kick, preserving Miami’s second straight clean sheet.
Miami will play Atlanta United next, on the road at 7:30 p.m.
