NEW YORK – Gabriel Pereira, Maxi Moralez and Heber hit the target in the second half when New York City FC ruled out Inter Miami CF 3-0 on Monday night at City Field.
The New York team and reigning MLS champions joined CF Montreal in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Their confrontation will take place on Sunday afternoon, at the Saputo stadium.
Pereira opened the scoring in the 63rd minute and Moralez doubled New York City FC’s lead just six minutes later. Santiago Rodríguez got an assist on Moralez’s goal.
Heber took advantage of a bad back pass to complete the scoring at the open net in the second period of added time.
It was the last game of the career of Inter Miami CF striker Gonzalo Higuain, who announced his retirement a few weeks ago.
This duel was originally planned at the Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. Citi Field, however, became available when the New York Mets were eliminated by the San Diego Padres.
Also on Monday night, FC Dallas beat Minnesota United 1-1 (5-4 pens) and earned the pass to the second round.
On Sunday they will face second-seed Austin FC in a Western Conference semi-final.
Emanuel Reynoso was the first to vibrate the strings. He gave Minnesota a 1-0 lead in the 53rd minute. Facundo Quignon equalized in the 64th minute from a corner kick.
Minnesota goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair of Canada stood out with eight saves.
