Argentinian football sensation Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance by scoring two goals to propel Inter Miami to a 3-1 triumph over Nashville SC in the first match of their MLS Cup playoff series. Tadeo Allende also found the back of the net for Inter, who secured a 1-0 advantage in the series, with the next game scheduled in Nashville on November 1.
Having clinched the Golden Boot award for his remarkable performance in the regular season with 29 goals in 28 matches, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi wasted no time in making an impact. He opened the scoring for Miami with a diving header off a pass from Luis Suarez in the 19th minute.
Allende extended Miami’s lead to 2-0 in the 62nd minute with a header from a delivery by Ian Fray. The team’s strong performance was acknowledged by Rodrigo De Paul, who emphasized the importance of starting the playoffs with a home victory.
In a dramatic conclusion, Messi sealed the win in the ninth minute of stoppage time after Nashville’s keeper failed to control a ball, allowing Messi to capitalize. Hany Mukhtar’s late strike served as mere consolation for Nashville.
The triumph followed Messi’s signing of a three-year contract extension, ensuring his stay in Florida until 2028, a development welcomed by MLS commissioner Don Garber. De Paul expressed his delight at having Messi as a teammate and highlighted the advantage of witnessing Messi’s brilliance regularly.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami’s Javier Mascherano emphasized the need to maintain focus and improvement despite the recent victories over Nashville, acknowledging the threat posed by their opponents’ playing style.
The victory not only highlighted Messi’s impact on the team and the league but also underlined Inter Miami’s determination to pursue their first MLS Cup title, with the team focused on continuous progress and success.