Inter Miami got their MLS Cup playoff started emphatically with Lionel Messi scoring twice in a 3-1 win over Nashville SC. The Argentine megastar displayed his unmatched talent, scoring the first goal in the 19th minute with a perfect header of an Argentine cross by Luis Suarez.
The early objective was a boost to Miami and showed how Messi can turn a game around within a matter of seconds. Miami had another goal in the 62nd minute by Tadeo Allende giving the team a comfortable lead of two goals and keeping the visitors at bay.
Nashville SC retaliated by launching a number of attacks to break the Miami defenses yet again Messi shone through. During the injury, Messi was passed by his colleague, Alba B Jordi, and made a sharp cut after which he shot with his left foot to the bottom-left corner to achieve his second night goal. Hany Mukhtar of Nashville scored a late consolation goal, however, this was an insufficient amount to change the tide of a game against Miami.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano also pointed out that teamwork will be vital in the high-stakes playoffs and that everyone will play a significant role in their success in the post-season. The team’s synergy and Messi’s leadership were a winning formula in this opener.
Messi had earlier been awarded the 2025 MLS Golden Boot by the Commissioner Don Garber, who commended the super star due to his scoring 29 goals in 28 games. Garber emphasised the transformative effect of Messi on Inter Miami and the entire Major League Soccer. Having shown this overwhelming performance, Inter Miami is now heading to Nashville on November 1 with the momentum and confidence and fans are looking forward to witnessing another magic by Messi during the post season.