Philadelphia vs Inter Miami : In a match that encapsulated the chaotic beauty of MLS, Inter Miami CF clawed back from a 3-1 deficit to secure a 3-3 draw against the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union on May 24, 2025. Fueled by Lionel Messi’s late-game brilliance, the Herons snatched a point in stoppage time, leaving fans breathless and reinforcing why this clash is already a contender for MLS Game of the Year 210.
Match Overview: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
The game at Subaru Park had everything: early fireworks, tactical shifts, VAR drama, and a legendary comeback. Here’s how the action unfolded:
Key Moments
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7’ – Quinn Sullivan’s Stunner: Philadelphia’s 21-year-old homegrown star opened the scoring with a curling strike from a cleverly worked short corner. Kai Wagner’s quick thinking caught Miami napping, and Sullivan’s finish sent the River End into raptures 16.
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44’ – Baribo Doubles the Lead: MLS Golden Boot leader Tai Baribo capitalized on a scramble in the box, slotting home his 12th goal of the season. Mikael Uhre’s hustle kept the play alive, showcasing Philly’s relentless pressing 18.
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60’ – Allende Sparks Hope: Miami’s Tadeo Allende headed in Noah Allen’s cross, cutting the deficit to 2-1. The goal marked Miami’s first sign of life after a disjointed first half 47.
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73’ – Baribo’s Brace: A chaotic sequence from a long throw-in led to Baribo’s second goal, though Miami protested for offside. VAR upheld the decision, leaving the Herons furious 58.
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87’ – Messi’s Free-Kick Masterclass: With Miami trailing 3-1, Messi bent a 25-yard free-kick into the top corner, igniting the comeback 310.
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90+5’ – Segovia’s Equalizer: Messi’s pass found Telasco Segovia, who curled a sensational finish past Andrew Rick to seal the draw 212.
Tactical Breakdown: Why Philadelphia Dominated (Until They Didn’t)
Philadelphia’s High-Pressure System
Under coach Bradley Carnell, the Union deployed a 4-4-2, suffocating Miami’s buildup. Midfielders Quinn Sullivan and Danley Jean Jacques disrupted Sergio Busquets’ rhythm, while Baribo’s movement exploited Miami’s shaky center-back pairing 812.
Miami’s Adjustments
Javier Mascherano’s halftime shift to a 4-2-3-1, introducing Marcelo Weigandt and Segovia, injected width. Messi drifted centrally, creating overloads that eventually wore down Philly’s defense 57.
Philadelphia vs Inter Miami
Star Performers
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Tai Baribo (Philadelphia Union): With 13 goals in 15 games, Baribo became the fourth MLS player to achieve this feat. His physicality and positioning tormented Miami’s backline 16.
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Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): Despite a quiet first half, Messi delivered when it mattered: 1 goal, 1 assist, and 4 key passes. His free-kick was a reminder of his timeless class 310.
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Quinn Sullivan (Philadelphia Union): The USMNT prospect showcased why he’s a rising star, combining creativity with defensive work rate 68.
Controversies and Turning Points
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Offside Debate: Miami argued Baribo’s second goal was offside, but VAR ruled insufficient evidence to overturn 58.
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Redondo’s Near-Red Card: Federico Redondo escaped a red after elbowing Bruno Damiani, a decision that left Philly fans fuming 27.
Philadelphia vs Inter Miami
Post-Match Reactions
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Bradley Carnell (Philadelphia Coach): “We lost focus in the final minutes. Against players like Messi, you can’t switch off for a second” 6.
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Javier Mascherano (Inter Miami Coach): “This shows our soul. We fought for every ball, and Messi’s leadership lifted us” 5.
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Lionel Messi: “We’re in a tough moment, but this comeback gives us belief for the Club World Cup” 1012.
Implications for Both Teams
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Philadelphia Union: Remain atop the East with 30 points but missed a chance to extend their lead. Their nine-game unbeaten streak stays alive 14.
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Inter Miami: The draw halted a four-game winless skid, offering momentum ahead of the Club World Cup. However, defensive issues persist 710.
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Conclusion: A Match for the Ages
This clash epitomized why MLS captivates fans: relentless drama, world-class talent, and unforgettable moments. While Philadelphia will rue missed chances, Inter Miami’s resilience—spearheaded by Messi—proved why soccer’s greatest stories are written in stoppage time.
For more MLS updates, follow MLS Official Site, ESPN Soccer, and Inter Miami News.