Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are set to kick off their MLS Cup playoff campaign at home on October 25, with the match broadcast live on a massive screen in Times Square, New York. Major League Soccer announced that Inter Miami’s first playoff game will be the only one played on Friday night, starting at 8:30 p.m. Eastern time, a slight change from the original scheduling plans for the playoffs to start on October 26.
After securing the MLS Supporters Shield with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Columbus, Inter Miami claimed the top seed for the playoffs and the home-field advantage throughout. Should they progress, Inter Miami would also host the MLS Cup final on December 7. Speaking about the home advantage, Messi expressed confidence in their strength at home and the advantage it provides, emphasizing the need to prove themselves on the pitch.
Notably, Messi’s win of the Supporters Shield marked his 46th trophy across various clubs and national team appearances, further solidifying his legendary status in football. Despite winning the Leagues Cup last season, Inter Miami did not qualify for the MLS playoffs, making this year’s campaign even more significant.
In a unique move, MLS announced that Apple TV will stream the match for its customers, irrespective of their MLS Season Pass subscription status. Additionally, the game will be shown on a massive 25,000-square-foot digital screen in Times Square, enhancing the visibility of the event. Inter Miami will commence their playoff journey in a best-of-three series against the winner of the Eastern Conference’s wild-card match scheduled for October 22, with the full playoff bracket set to be finalised on October 19.
By playing on Friday night in Fort Lauderdale, the fixture avoids potential clashes with other sporting events in South Florida that weekend. Significant events including the Miami vs Florida State college football game and NASCAR playoffs at Homestead-Miami Speedway are set to take place, providing a packed sporting calendar for fans in the region.
The combination of Messi’s presence, Inter Miami’s success, and the unique broadcasting elements promise an exciting start to the MLS Cup playoffs on October 25. Football enthusiasts and supporters alike eagerly anticipate witnessing Messi’s impact in the high-stakes playoff environment, with Times Square adding a touch of spectacle to the occasion.