Lionel Messi’s Double Leads Inter Miami to Victory Over Nashville SC in MLS Cup Series Opener
In an electrifying start to the MLS Cup playoffs, Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a convincing 3-1 victory over Nashville SC. The match took place on Friday, marking the first game of their best-of-three playoff series. With this win, Miami took a 1-0 lead in the series.
Lionel Messi Shines with Two Goals
The Argentine superstar, who received the Golden Boot for scoring the most goals in the regular season, netted two goals during the game. Messi’s outstanding performance came just after he signed a three-year contract extension that will keep him at Inter Miami until 2028.
Highlights from the Match
- Date: Friday, October 2023
- Location: Inter Miami home ground
- Final Score: Inter Miami 3, Nashville SC 1
- Messi’s Goals: 19th minute and injury time
- Other Scorer: Tadeo Allende in the 62nd minute
Messi opened the scoring with a diving header, setting the tone early in the 19th minute. Luis Suarez assisted him after a brilliant play involving Sergio Busquets and Rodrigo De Paul. The second goal came from Allende, extending Miami’s lead to 2-0 in the second half.
Post-Match Reactions
After the game, De Paul expressed the team’s determination to succeed. He emphasized the importance of starting the playoffs strongly, highlighting their improved teamwork and focus. Messi secured the win in the last moments of the match when a defensive error allowed him to score easily.
Nashville’s Hany Mukhtar scored in the closing moments, which was merely a consolation. Despite the loss, Nashville coach Javier Mascherano cautioned his team against complacency, insisting they must remain focused and adapt to their opponents’ style.
Looking Ahead
With game two scheduled for November 1 in Nashville, both teams are gearing up for another tough encounter. Inter Miami aims to build on this momentum, while Nashville looks to bounce back and tie the series.
This exciting playoff opener highlighted Messi’s critical role in Inter Miami’s success and solidified his impact on Major League Soccer.
