Inter Miami CF, currently in second place in the Eastern Conference, has officially clinched a spot in the 2026 MLS Playoffs after a 2-0 victory over New York City FC at Nu Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 14.
Germán Berterame broke the deadlock for Inter Miami, finding the back of the net in the 20th minute after a well-timed assist from Luis Suarez. This goal ended Berterame’s scoreless streak and marked his first goal since May.
Shortly before halftime, Rodrigo De Paul doubled Inter Miami’s lead by capitalizing on a pass from Lionel Messi, his 14th assist of the season. De Paul’s finish from outside the box gave Miami a comfortable 2-0 advantage heading into the break and ultimately the game.
"When you have players who are willing to buy into the vision you're trying to implement, everything becomes easier," Miami coach Cristian 'Kily' González said after the game. "We recognize the mistakes we've been making, or are still making, and we address them during training. And really, that willingness makes it much easier to convey clear concepts."
As of mid-October, six teams have officially secured their spots in the Audi 2026 MLS Playoffs: Nashville FC, Inter Miami CF, New England Revolution, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, St. Louis City SC and FC Dallas. With the regular season nearing its conclusion in early November, the playoff race continues as more teams battle for the remaining berths.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Inter Miami CF secures 2026 MLS playoff spot after 2-0 win over NYC FC
