In an electrifying match at the Red Bull Arena (Harrison, New Jersey) on August 26, 2023, Inter Miami came out on top, defeating the home team, New York Red Bulls, with a 2-0 scoreline.

D. Gómez of Inter Miami was the first to get on the scoreboard with a brilliantly executed shot to the bottom right corner in the 37th minute, assisted by Noah Allen. Though New York Red Bulls made a number of substitutions in the second half to shift their offensive strategy, they were unable to convert their attempts on goal into points.

The second half witnessed the introduction of Lionel Messi for Inter Miami, replacing Leonardo Campana in the 60th minute. This decision by Inter Miami coach G. Martino arguably turned the tides of the game. Indeed, many fans marveled at Messi's tactical prowess and vision throughout the match, with one social media commentator stating, "Messi giving me so much joy, I love this man so much 😭."

In the 89th minute, Messi demonstrated why he is considered one of the best players in the world, delivering a left-footed shot from near the goal line to the center. This, which marked Messi's first goal in the Major League Soccer (MLS), was assisted by B. Cremaschi, and took Inter Miami's lead to a decisive 2-0.

Despite the loss, some New York fans showed a sense of awe rather than animosity over Messi's play, admitting they enjoyed watching him on the field. One fan commented, "Messi life is a movie. I’m not even mad as a Red Bull fan."

The match was not without its controversies though, with a penalty conceded by David Ruíz of Inter Miami for a hand ball in the penalty area in the 42nd minute. However, after a VAR check, it was determined that no penalty would be awarded.

According to the social media buzz, the match was also notable for the attendance of many tourists and Messi fans, who made the trip to see him play in person. The Red Bull Arena, praised for its beauty, was filled with spectators from both teams, and Messi T-shirts were sold in the BullShop, signifying his impact on the MLS.

Despite the defeat, New York RB fans are hopeful for a better outcome in their next game against "New England". Meanwhile, Inter Miami fans are already pumped for their team's next game against "Nashville SC", hoping for another captivating performance from their star player, Lionel Messi.