Lionel Messi and Inter Miami face Nashville SC in a decisive winner-take-all match in the MLS Cup Playoffs. The game determines whether Inter Miami advances or exits the competition in the first round.
Inter Miami narrowly missed securing their second consecutive Supporters’ Shield by just one point, yet led the league in scoring with 81 goals. Messi captured the Golden Boot with 29 goals and tied for the league lead in assists at 19.
“The biggest criticism of the nine-time Ballon d’Or winner’s U.S. tenure has been his inability to lead Miami to an MLS Cup title.”
Despite his prolific numbers, the team’s postseason record remains underwhelming. In the previous season, Miami bowed out in the first round and suffered a heavy defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup.
Messi’s standout achievement in Miami remains the 2024 Leagues Cup championship, where Inter Miami triumphed over Nashville SC in a dramatic 10–9 penalty shootout final. In the current playoff series, Miami won Game 1 at home 3–1, aided by two goals and an assist from Messi. Nashville responded with a 2–1 win in Game 2, forcing tonight’s decisive third match.
Forward Luis Suárez will not play in the deciding match after receiving a suspension for kicking a Nashville defender.
Author’s Summary: Inter Miami’s playoff hopes depend on Lionel Messi’s leadership in a decisive clash with Nashville, highlighting both his brilliance and the team’s need for postseason redemption.