Inter Miami Faces NYCFC: 2025 MLS Opener with Messi Leading the Charge
Mar, 4 2025
Inter Miami CF is gearing up for a fresh start in the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season as they host New York City FC on February 22 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The match, set to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET, marks the long-awaited season opener, with plenty of expectations riding on Miami's star-studded lineup. Last year, Inter Miami topped the league with an impressive 74 points but faced a disappointing early playoff exit at the hands of Atlanta United. Now, with renewed focus, they are listed as -190 favorites to secure a win in their home opener.
Catching the spotlight is none other than football sensation Lionel Messi, who has been nothing short of transformative for Inter Miami since his arrival in August 2023. With Messi racking up 23 breathtaking goals in just 25 appearances last season, fans are eager to see if he can continue his scoring spree this year. His partnership with fellow forward Luis Suarez, who himself netted 21 goals alongside 10 assists in 2024, adds a formidable edge to Miami's attack.
Betting Odds and Expert Analysis
Plenty of attention has been given to the betting odds ahead of this match. NYCFC, while the underdogs at +450 on the money line, have proven they can hold their own, having scored 54 goals in 34 matches last season. The over/under for total goals sits at 3.5, suggesting that a high-scoring affair could be in the cards. Soccer expert Brandt Sutton, known for his sharp insights and a solid 165-130-2 betting record from 2022, points to Miami's staggering +30 goal differential from last season as a factor supporting this prediction of an offensive juggernaut.
Despite finishing sixth in the Eastern Conference with 50 points last year, NYCFC's capability to deliver surprises cannot be overlooked. They've got a variety of attacking options, and while they might not boast big names like Messi, they can capitalize on any defensive lapses their opponents might have. Sutton's analysis focuses heavily on leveraging Inter Miami's potent goal-scoring prowess, particularly with Messi leading the charge, as a key advantage going into this game.
For fans, this opener is not just about starting the season with a win; it's about setting a tone that ensures the team's consistency throughout the year. Inter Miami has worked on building a squad that rivals any MLS team, and adding charisma and experience like Messi’s has elevated their status. The upcoming clash against NYCFC is more than just a match – it's the beginning of a journey that Miami hopes will lead to playoff redemption and, ultimately, MLS glory.