📸 Photo via Inter Miami CF on X
Inter Miami experienced a week packed with storylines. The club produced a dramatic rivalry comeback against Orlando City, received league-wide recognition for standout performances, shared major news regarding its future stadium, and saw a new transfer rumor emerge.
From Lionel Messi’s brilliance in the Florida Derby to Telasco Segovia’s growing influence, it was a week that highlighted both the present and the future of the club.
Florida Derby Comeback Sets the Tone
The biggest moment of the week came in the Florida Derby, where Inter Miami defeated Orlando City 4–2 at Inter&Co Stadium. Miami found themselves trailing early, but the response from the squad changed the match entirely.
Lionel Messi led the comeback with a brace, while Telasco Segovia and Mateo Silvetti also scored in a historic result. The win marked Inter Miami’s first-ever road victory against Orlando City since the club joined MLS in 2020.
Beyond the goals, the performance showed a different side of Miami. After a disappointing loss to LAFC earlier in the season, the team responded with greater urgency and composure once the match opened up.
It was a statement win in one of the league’s fastest-growing rivalries.
Messi and Miami Earn MLS Honors
The derby performance brought major recognition across the league.
Lionel Messi’s stunning golazo against Orlando City was voted ATT MLS Goal of Matchday 2.
Messi, Telasco Segovia, and Mateo Silvetti were all named to the MLS Team of the Matchday, with Javier Mascherano selected as head coach. Former Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender also appeared in the Matchday squad for his performances with his new club.
Messi also received another personal accolade. He was named MLS Player of the Matchday, adding to his growing legacy in the league.
The award marked his 13th MLS Player of the Matchday honor, ranking third all-time in league history.
Even more impressive, Messi remains the only player in MLS history to win six Player of the Matchday awards in consecutive seasons, accomplishing the feat across 2024 and 2025.
Training Ground Focus: Segovia Continues to Rise
Following the derby victory, attention shifted to the training ground.
One name that continues to gain attention is Telasco Segovia. After scoring against Orlando, the midfielder spoke about the culture developing inside the squad and the influence Lionel Messi has on the group.
Segovia praised the captain’s competitive mentality and the example he sets during daily training sessions.
Segovia said:
“What impresses me the most about him is his will to win and how defeat bothers him. He has won everything and yet he still gets quite upset when he loses. He is our captain, our inspiration. Seeing him like this motivates us to always want to win.”
Several players also returned to full training during the week.
- Sergio Reguilón returned earlier than expected after a knee injury and is now training normally.
- Luis Suárez, who felt mild discomfort earlier, is back in sessions.
- David Ayala has also returned after missing time while mourning the passing of his father.
- Messi, Berterame, and Rodrigo De Paul have all trained without issues.
The squad appears close to full strength as the season continues.
Stadium News: Miami Freedom Park Gets Its Name
One of the biggest off-field developments came with the announcement of a stadium naming-rights partnership with Nubank.
Inter Miami confirmed that the future stadium at Miami Freedom Park will be called Nu Stadium.
The project is expected to open in phases beginning in 2026, with the stadium and several surrounding district components expected to be completed first.
Club co-owner David Beckham emphasized the significance of the new home.
Beckham said:
“Miami has always been a place where people come with big dreams, and from the beginning we wanted this club to reflect that spirit. Nu Stadium will be more than a stadium. It will be a home for the family and a reminder that everyone is free to dream.”
Managing owner Jorge Mas also highlighted the ambition behind the partnership.
“Inter Miami was born to set new standards and redefine football, with excellence on and off the field. Alongside Nubank, we share a disruptive and global ambition.”
Cristina Junqueira, Nubank co-founder, described the deal as a long-term strategic partnership aimed at expanding the brand in the United States and strengthening global engagement.
Transfer Rumor: Inter Miami Monitoring Matías Acevedo
On the transfer front, reports from Argentina suggest Inter Miami are monitoring Matías Acevedo, a 17-year-old midfielder from Racing Club’s reserve team.
According to multiple social media reports, the club is evaluating whether to make a move before the transfer deadline or revisit the situation later.
At this stage, the situation remains exploratory rather than advanced. Miami are believed to be assessing the player’s development and potential before making a decision.
What’s Next for Inter Miami
Inter Miami’s schedule remains busy.
The team is expected to travel to Washington D.C. for a special event recognizing their MLS Cup championship. According to The Athletic, the club will participate in a commemorative visit to the White House. The club has not yet officially confirmed the White House delegation, but expectations are that the full squad will attend.
Lionel Messi’s participation is also being debated after the Inter Miami captain missed the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony during Joe Biden’s presidency last year, which has led to speculation about whether he will attend this event.
Miami will face D.C. United on March 7 in another important road match as the season continues.