Eastern Conference Powerhouses Clash in MLS Championship Showdown

The Eastern Conference championship match in Major League Soccer has been determined, with Inter Miami preparing to welcome New York City FC as hosts.

MLS Cup Playoff action returned this weekend after the international break in November. Inter Miami eliminated FC Cincinnati away from home thanks to Lionel Messi's remarkable performance. The Argentine superstar contributed to four goals at TQL Stadium, elevating his playoff total to 12 goal contributions across four matches.

New York City FC shocked the Supporters' Shield champions Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park. First-season head coach Pascal Jansen guided NYCFC without Alonso Martínez into enemy territory, securing their second consecutive upset victory.

The Herons find themselves in unexplored waters, having never reached this playoff stage before. NYCFC, conversely, aims to advance further after falling to Red Bull New York in last year's conference championship.

Here's your complete guide to the Eastern Conference final in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

MLS Eastern Conference Final: Inter Miami vs. New York City H2H

The Eastern Conference championship represents the 15th encounter between the Herons and NYCFC.

Jansen's squad decisively leads the all-time series between these clubs, although Miami remained unbeaten against their conference final adversary during this campaign. The Herons earned a draw with NYCFC at Chase Stadium in the 2025 season opener despite playing with ten men from the 23rd minute onward.

Javier Mascherano subsequently brought his team to Citi Field in September, where Messi spearheaded the Herons to a commanding 4–0 victory with one goal and two assists.

Inter Miami vs. New York City FC in 2025

Where and When is the MLS Eastern Conference Final?

Inter Miami earned the top remaining seed in the eastern bracket, securing home field advantage. NYCFC will travel for their second consecutive playoff round, making the journey to Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.

Additionally, the Herons accumulated the most regular season points among all surviving teams. Should Miami overcome NYCFC, they would host the MLS Cup final regardless of their opponent. If NYCFC prevails, they would face another away match in the final.

NYCFC remains unbeaten in their previous four visits to Chase Stadium, although their sole victory came in a friendly match. These teams last clashed in postseason play on Oct. 17, 2022, when NYCFC defeated a Gonzalo Higuaín-captained Miami side 3–0.

This conference final might represent the last match at Chase Stadium, as Miami Freedom Park is scheduled to debut in 2026.

Inter Miami vs. New York City FC: Last Five Games at Chase Stadium