Lionel Messi scored a decisive late winner as Inter Miami came from behind to defeat New England Revolution 2-1 on Sunday, moving above their Eastern Conference rivals into second place in the MLS standings.

The Argentine superstar produced a trademark piece of individual brilliance in the 83rd minute, weaving past three defenders before finding the back of the net to secure all three points for Miami. An own goal from teammate Ian Fray four minutes later appeared to threaten their lead, but it was ruled out for a marginal offside.

Messi also played a key role in Miami’s equaliser, delivering an improvised assist with the back of his head for German Berterame. The goal cancelled out Daniel Gazdag’s early second-half opener for New England.

The victory lifted Inter Miami one point above the New England Revolution with just one regular-season match remaining. Miami will secure home advantage through to the Conference Finals if they defeat Charlotte FC on Saturday.

The victory also secured Miami’s place in next year’s CONCACAF Champions Cup.

“It was a hugely important occasion. They are a very difficult team to play against, so I think it was an outstanding team performance,” Berterame said.

After a goalless opening half, New England took the lead in the 53rd minute. Peyton Miller raced down the right wing before reaching the byline and delivering a cut-back pass. Ilay Feingold then flicked the ball backwards with his heel into the path of Daniel Gazdag, who fired it into the net.

Miami nearly found an equaliser shortly after the hour mark. Messi’s initial effort was saved by Matt Turner, allowing Berterame to follow up on the rebound. However, Brooklyn Raines made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny the hosts.

Miami drew level in the 69th minute when Telasco Segovia sent a high ball into the penalty area towards Messi. Running between two defenders, the Argentine somehow redirected it with the back of his head into the path of German Berterame, who made no mistake from close range.

Messi then completed the comeback in the 83rd minute. Receiving the ball just outside the penalty area, he turned sharply and evaded three challenges before using his left foot to send a low shot into the far corner, beyond the reach of United States international goalkeeper Matt Turner.

New England appeared to have been handed a late equaliser with just three minutes remaining.

Ian Fray unexpectedly directed a hopeful cross from Luca Langoni into his own goal despite facing no immediate pressure. However, after a video review, the goal was disallowed because Langoni was judged to have been in an offside position.

Sunday’s matches also confirmed the final playoff places in the Eastern Conference.

Columbus Crew and Orlando City both secured their places in the playoffs after 10th-placed New York Red Bulls suffered a 3-2 defeat against Eastern Conference leaders Nashville.

Sam Sturridge scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to complete Nashville’s comeback after trailing 2-0. The victory took Nashville to 74 points, equalling the MLS record for the highest points total in a single season, with one match still remaining.

Nashville also celebrated lifting the Supporters’ Shield trophy at their home ground, GEODIS Park. The club has remained unbeaten at home throughout the season and became the first team in MLS history to record 15 home victories.

The higher-seeded teams will enjoy home-field advantage throughout the playoffs until the MLS Cup final, scheduled for December 18.