Lionel Messi Brings the Heat: Inter Miami Kicks Off the 2025 MLS Season
Ever since soccer legend Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, the popularity of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States has skyrocketed. Fans from all over the country and beyond are eager to witness the magic of Messi live and in person, making Inter Miami a household name. Messi’s contract with Inter Miami still has one more season to go, and while there’s always a chance he could extend his stay, it’s wise for soccer enthusiasts to take advantage of every opportunity to see him play before he ultimately hangs up his boots. One such opportunity is the upcoming match on Saturday, February 22, 2025, when Inter Miami will face off against New York City FC at Chase Stadium. If you want to catch this thrilling encounter, here’s everything you need to know about how to watch the game.
Game Details and Viewing Options
The highly anticipated game between Inter Miami and New York City FC is set to kick off at 2:30 p.m. ET. This match will be a focal point of the 2025 MLS season opener, given Messi’s presence. For those who are excited to catch every moment of the action, the game will be available through a subscription to MLS Season Pass. MLS Season Pass is the exclusive streaming service for all MLS matches, offering viewers an unparalleled experience with no blackouts. The service is available on Apple TV+ and, for the first time, through DirecTV.
MLS Season Pass: The Ultimate Soccer Experience
If you’re a die-hard soccer fan looking to stay on top of every MLS game this season, MLS Season Pass is a must-have. Subscribers will enjoy English and Spanish broadcasts of hundreds of live MLS matches, along with game replays, highlights, and in-depth analysis. Original programming and behind-the-scenes content will also keep you engaged throughout the season. For existing Apple TV+ subscribers, the MLS Season Pass add-on typically costs $12.99 per month or $79 for the entire season. Non-subscribers can opt for $14.99 per month or $99 for the season. Apple TV+ also boasts a impressive lineup of award-winning shows such as "Ted Lasso," "Shrinking," and "Severance," as well as original movies like "The Gorge." New subscribers can take advantage of a 7-day free trial, and if you’ve recently purchased an eligible Apple device, you might even be eligible for up to three months of free service. Check out MLS Season Pass for $79.99/season at Apple TV+.
Free Viewing Options for MLS Fans
For those looking to watch the Inter Miami vs. NYC FC match without a subscription, there are a couple of options. DirecTV subscribers can enjoy a free trial of MLS Season Pass from February 22 to March 1, 2025. This trial period includes the opening day clash between Inter Miami and New York City FC, providing a fantastic opportunity to see Messi in action without any upfront cost. If you’re not a DirecTV subscriber but still want to watch the game for free, T-Mobile is offering a promotional deal. Qualified T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile customers can redeem complimentary access to the full season of MLS Season Pass with no blackout dates through the T-Life app, starting from February 18. This offer is a significant boon for fans who might not have considered subscribing otherwise.
DirecTV: Comprehensive Sports Coverage and MLS Access
DirecTV is one of the most comprehensive providers of sports content, offering access to numerous channels including ABC, ESPN, TNT, FOX Sports, NBA TV, and over 40 regional sports networks. In 2025, DirecTV is stepping up its game by providing an MLS Season Pass add-on, making every MLS match available to its customers. Matches can be watched live through the DirectTV satellite guide on channels 480 through 495, offering a familiar and user-friendly viewing experience. DirecTV customers will also be able to access MLS Season Pass through the Apple TV app, combining the best of both worlds. The free preview of MLS Season Pass for all DirecTV residential and commercial satellite customers from February 22 to March 1 will allow everyone to sample the service before committing. After the free trial, DirecTV packages start at $74.99/month. Try it free at DirecTV.
The 2025 MLS Week 1 Schedule
The 2025 MLS season kicks off with a full slate of exciting matches. Apart from the Inter Miami vs. New York City FC game at 2:30 p.m. ET, here’s a look at the rest of the Week 1 schedule:
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Saturday, Feb. 22:
- LAFC vs. Minnesota, 4:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass, Fox)
- Atlanta vs. Montreal, 7:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Cincinnati vs. New York, 7:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Columbus vs. Chicago, 7:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- D.C. vs. Toronto, 7:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Orlando vs. Philadelphia, 7:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Austin vs. Kansas City, 8:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Houston vs. Dallas, 8:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Nashville vs. New England, 8:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- St. Louis vs. Colorado, 8:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- San Jose vs. Salt Lake, 10:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Seattle vs. Charlotte, 10:30 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- Sunday, Feb. 23:
- Portland vs. Vancouver, 4:00 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
- L.A. vs. San Diego, 7:00 p.m. (MLS Season Pass)
Stay Connected with MLS All Season Long
Whether you’re a longtime MLS supporter or a new fan drawn in by Messi’s presence, there are plenty of ways to stay connected with the league throughout the 2025 season. From the comprehensive coverage provided by DirecTV to the flexible and feature-rich options of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+, there’s never been a better time to follow Major League Soccer. The excitement of the new season, combined with the allure of watching one of the world’s greatest players, promises a memorable year for soccer fans in the United States. Don’t miss out on the action; get your subscriptions and trial offers ready, and prepare to witness the future of American soccer.
