Messi and Inter Miami Defeated as Nashville Evens the MLS Cup Playoffs
Nashville SC ended a long winless streak against Inter Miami with a decisive victory in the MLS Cup playoffs. The team triumphed 2-1, forcing a third match in this playoff series.
Key Moments from the Match
At Geodis Park in Nashville, Tennessee, the game saw first-half goals from Sam Surridge and Josh Bauer. Nashville had not won against Inter Miami since May 2023, marking an end to a ten-match winless run.
First Half Highlights
- Penalty Goal: Sam Surridge opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a penalty kick. He executed a low shot to the right, taking advantage of a hesitant Rocco Rios Novo, Miami’s goalkeeper.
- Second Goal: Bauer extended the lead to 2-0 just before halftime. He scored from close range following a corner kick delivered by Hany Mukhtar.
Second Half Action
The second half began with Miami pushing for a comeback. Luis Suarez’s close-range effort in the 66th minute was saved by Nashville goalkeeper Joe Willis, keeping Nashville in front. Despite Miami’s control of the game, they struggled to convert their chances.
In a late surge, Lionel Messi finally found the back of the net in the 89th minute. He received a pass from Rodrigo De Paul and scored with a precise left-footed shot, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
Upcoming Match and Implications
The series now shifts back to Florida for a decisive Game 3. Inter Miami, who previously claimed victory in Game 1 with a 3-1 scoreline led by Messi’s two goals, will host this crucial match on Saturday.
This playoff series serves as a reminder of last year, where Miami, despite a strong regular-season record, was eliminated in the early rounds. The winner of this series will face either Columbus or Cincinnati, with Cincinnati currently leading their series 1-0.
