Inter Miami secured a 2–1 victory over D.C. United in front of more than 72,000 fans in Baltimore on Saturday afternoon, marking their second consecutive win. The match took place at M&T Bank Stadium, the home of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, and followed a visit to the White House by the team on Thursday. The Herons came into the game with momentum after a thrilling 4–2 comeback win against Orlando City in the Florida Derby last Sunday. However, the game was not as straightforward as expected for the reigning MLS Cup champions.
Manager Javier Mascherano’s team started the match with a relatively simple strategy, and it paid off early. In the 17th minute, Rodrigo De Paul scored a stunning right-footed curler into the top corner, beating former U.S. men’s national team goalkeeper Sean Johnson. Just ten minutes later, Lionel Messi added to the lead with a clever chip over Johnson following a perfect through ball from Mateo Silvetti, marking his 899th professional goal.
Despite the early advantage, D.C. United made things challenging for Inter Miami in the 75th minute. A shot from Jackson Hopkins was parried by goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, allowing Tai Baribo to score his second goal of the season. Although Inter Miami pushed hard in the final moments, the scoreline remained in their favor, moving them to six points in three games while D.C. United suffered their second straight loss.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will face Nashville SC in the round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup, while D.C. United prepares for an upcoming MLS clash with Chicago Fire.
Winners
Mateo Silvetti continued his impressive form since joining Inter Miami in August, delivering one of his best performances of the season. Starting for the second consecutive match, he played more centrally than usual, overlapping with Lionel Messi throughout the game. His assist for Messi’s goal was a standout moment, as he sidestepped a defender to find the Argentine star. Beyond the assist, Silvetti was a consistent defensive presence, dropping back to support Noah Allen at left back. With a goal, assist, and strong defensive contributions in three games, Silvetti is proving to be a key player for the Herons at just 20 years old.
Losers
Germán Berterame, who was expected to provide a reliable goal-scoring option for Inter Miami, has yet to make an impact. In this match, he failed to score on two shots on target and was largely uninvolved. While some of the issues stem from the lack of opportunities for the attacking players, including Messi, Berterame’s struggles across 270 MLS minutes without a goal are concerning. His performance highlights the ongoing reliance on Messi’s brilliance.
Inter Miami Player Ratings vs. D.C. United
Ratings provided by FotMob
GK: Dayne St. Clair – 7.2
St. Clair failed to keep a clean sheet for the third consecutive match, raising concerns about his performance. Canadian goalkeepers have faced challenges recently, with Maxime Crépeau receiving a red card in a previous match.
RB: Facundo Mura – 6.9
Mura struggled to adapt to playing alongside Messi, and neither he nor Ian Fray have impressed in the right-back position.
CB: Maxi Falcón – 7.5
The Uruguayan defender found his form, making several key deflections and interceptions to help secure the win.
CB: Micael – 7.4
Continuing to develop a partnership with Falcón, Micael had his most consistent game since joining the Herons, contributing 14 defensive actions.
LB: Noah Allen – 7.3
Allen had a standout performance, involving himself in all aspects of the left wing behind Silvetti and Yannick Bright.
DM: Rodrigo De Paul – 8.2
De Paul opened the scoring with a great strike and has been consistent in midfield alongside Yannick Bright.
DM: Yannick Bright – 8.0
Bright played a key role in Messi’s goal, making a tackle that set up the play. He also contributed 14 defensive actions, showing his versatility.
RW: Lionel Messi (c) – 7.8
Messi was instrumental in Mascherano’s tactical setup, playing wide to avoid congestion in the middle. His runs caused problems for D.C. United’s defenders.
AM: Telasco Segovia – 7.7
Segovia’s presence on both sides of the ball stood out, providing a perfect pass for De Paul’s goal and making seven recoveries to block counterattacks.
LW: Mateo Silvetti – 7.4
Silvetti continues to carve out a starting role, contributing with a slick assist and showing promise in attack.
CF: Germán Berterame – 7.6
Berterame remains without an MLS goal, struggling to link up with other attackers. His performance raises questions about his role in the team.
SUB: Tadeo Allende (71’ for Silvetti) – 6.3
Allende helped secure the win in the final 19 minutes, though his impact was limited.
SUB: Gonzalo Luján (88’ for Segovia) – N/A
Luján made his second late-game appearance in a row.
Subs not used: Rocco Ríos Novo (GK), Cesar Abadia-Reda, David Ayala, Ian Fray, David Ruiz, Daniel Pinter, Luis Suárez
What the Ratings Tell Us
Rodrigo De Paul has established himself as a consistent presence in midfield, forming a strong partnership with Yannick Bright. His relationship with Messi and the wingers has been key to the team’s success. Yannick Bright is playing the best soccer of his career, contributing 14 defensive actions and helping elevate De Paul’s performance. Telasco Segovia has proven to be a vital piece for Inter Miami, finding opportunities both wide and in the center.
The Numbers That Explain Miami’s Win
- 72,026 fans attended the game, marking the second time in three games that Inter Miami has played in front of over 72,000 fans.
- 39 touches highlighted Silvetti’s effectiveness down the wing, showcasing his growing influence.
- 0.98 Expected Goals (xG) indicated that Miami trailed in xG for the second time in three games, conceding 1.59 xG to D.C. United.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | D.C. United | Inter Miami |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 36% | 64% |
| Expected Goals | 1.59 | 0.98 |
| Total Shots | 15 | 8 |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 5 |
| Big Chances | 1 | 2 |
| Passing Accuracy | 81% | 87% |
| Fouls Committed | 16 | 8 |
| Corners | 8 | 1 |
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