Messi Scores Twice to Propel Inter Miami to MLS Cup Playoff Lead Over Nashville SC

Argentinian soccer superstar Lionel Messi proved once again his skillful abilities as he scored a brace to lead Inter Miami to a 3-1 win over Nashville SC in the first game of the MLS Cup round one playoff series. The game, which was held on Friday evening, was the first of a best-of-three series, with the second contest to be played in Nashville on November 1. In addition to Messi, Tadeo Allende was also among the scorers, assisting Miami to a 1-0 lead early in the encounter and later to a 2-0 lead before Messi added the insurance goal.

Before the match, the Ballon d'Or winner eight times, Messi, was awarded the Golden Boot award for his regular season performance, having netted 29 goals in 28 games. Proving why he was so deserving of this honour, Messi lost no time putting his superiority on display on the field. In the 19th minute, a diving header from a pass by Luis Suarez resulted in him scoring 1-0 for Miami. The play was precise teamwork: Sergio Busquets gained possession of the ball on the sideline and passed to Rodrigo De Paul, who then passed to a sprinting Messi. Messi then passed the ball to Suarez and received it back to complete the move, showcasing his impeccable timing and positioning.

In the 62nd minute, Tadeo Allende extended Miami’s lead to 2-0 with a header from a pass by Ian Fray, putting Miami in a commanding position. Throughout the game, Miami’s players showcased discipline, tactical understanding, and coordination. De Paul highlighted the team’s focus and intensity, emphasizing that the victory reflected their growing cohesion and ability to read moments to attack or defend effectively.

Messi sealed the final score in the ninth minute of second-half stoppage time when Nashville goalkeeper Joe Willis could not handle a ball from Jordi Alba on the left flank, leaving Messi with the chance to tap the ball home. Nashville were able to score late through Hany Mukhtar in the 11th and last minute of stoppage time, but it was pointless in changing the result. The win followed Messi signing a three-year contract extension with Inter Miami, which ensures that the 38-year-old icon will stay in Florida until 2028.

Club officials and teammates praised Messi’s impact both on and off the field. Inter Miami CEO David Garber acknowledged that Messi had reset the trajectory for Major League Soccer, enhancing the league’s competitiveness and drawing global attention. De Paul expressed personal delight at Messi’s contract renewal, noting the advantage of having such a world-class talent on the team and emphasizing the importance of enjoying his presence on a weekly basis.

Former Argentina international Javier Mascherano, whose side is aiming for Inter Miami’s first MLS Cup title, stressed the need for continued improvement. Despite having beaten Nashville in consecutive encounters, including a 5-2 regular-season finale, he acknowledged Nashville’s capability to cause significant damage and emphasized that Inter Miami cannot afford complacency.

Overall, the match highlighted Messi’s unmatched skill, the team’s tactical maturity, and Inter Miami’s growing confidence as they progress in the MLS Cup playoffs. The victory underscored the importance of Messi’s leadership and experience, the effectiveness of coordinated team play, and the club’s determination to maintain momentum while pursuing its first championship. The team now prepares for the next playoff game in Nashville, aiming to build on the solid foundation established by this commanding win.