Messi secures Miami's Champions Cup place with comeback win

Lionel Messi contributed a goal and an assist as Inter Miami CF came back to beat the New England Revolution 2-1. [5][6] The victory secured Miami's place in the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup and moved it above New England into second in the Eastern Conference with one regular-season match remaining. [6] Why it matters: Miami removed a qualification task from its final regular-season game: a draw or defeat against New England would have left Champions Cup entry unresolved until Decision Day. The same result also changed the order immediately below first place in the Eastern Conference. [6] Key insights: Messi helped create one goal and scored the go-ahead goal, directly contributing to both Miami goals. [5][6] | The win served two purposes: continental qualification and a move above the opponent into second place. [6] | Champions Cup qualification is settled, but Miami still has one MLS regular-season match remaining. [6] Cheatsheet facts: What happened: Miami beat New England 2-1, with Messi recording a goal and an assist. [5][6] | Why: Messi's go-ahead goal delivered the victory that clinched a 2027 Champions Cup berth. [6] | The catch: Miami moved into second in the Eastern Conference, but one regular-season match remains. [6] | What's next: Decision Day is November 7; Miami reaches it with Champions Cup qualification already secured. [6]