Did Messi Lead Inter Miami Playoff Victory?

Lionel Messi played another masterclass as Inter Miami won the first match in the MLS Cup’s round one playoffs by a margin of three goals to one over Nashville SC. The Argentine superstar became a two-goal scorer, proving that he is one of the most powerful players in the Major League Soccer.

In the 19th minute, Messi scored his first goal, heading in a well-placed cross by Luis Suarez, giving Miami an early lead. The objective determined the atmosphere of the rest of the match. Miami controlled the rhythm and kept pressure on Nashville.

Tadeo Allende also increased Miami’s score in the 62nd minute, taking advantage of the team’s concerted efforts to maintain the scoreboard on their side. Nashville attempted to react, which provided a variety of opportunities.

Still, Inter Miami’s defensive play and the rapid transfers of the midfield kept the guests under control. Messi then struck a beautiful second goal on injury time. Jordi Alba passed him, and when he received the ball, he cut sharply and shot a strong left-footed shot into the bottom-left corner, passing the game.

Although Nashville Hany Mukhtar scored in added time, the final score put Inter Miami in a good position to start the best-of-three series well. Coach Javier Mascherano pointed out the significance of each player during playoff games and underlined the teamwork needed to achieve success.

Earlier that evening, MLS Commissioner Don Garber awarded the Golden Boot to Messi in the year 2025 in recognition of his outstanding season in which he scored 29 goals in 28 games.

Garber hailed Messi’s influence on Inter Miami and the MLS in general, highlighting how the superstar has helped the league increase its popularity since he joined in 2023. This win and Messi’s further brilliance preconditioned a wonderful continuation leg in Nashville on November 1, and Miami will want to reach the next stages of the playoffs.