Messi Leads Inter Miami to Playoff Victory Over Nashville SC
In a thrilling playoff opener, Lionel Messi scored two goals and provided an assist, propelling Inter Miami CF to a convincing 3-1 win against Nashville SC at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This match marked the beginning of the Round 1 playoff series, where Inter Miami took the first step toward advancing in the knockout stage.
Messi’s strong performance came after he received the MLS Golden Boot trophy for being the season’s top scorer. He netted 29 goals in 28 matches this season, earning the accolade for the first time since joining Inter Miami in 2023. Messi, fueled by his achievements, opened the scoring with a well-placed diving header from a Luis Suarez assist.
Alongside Messi, Tadeo Allende also contributed to the scoreline with a first-half goal, helping solidify Inter Miami’s lead. Head coach Javier Mascherano praised the team effort following the victory, emphasizing the importance of every player at this pivotal stage.
Before the match commenced, MLS Commissioner Don Garber honored Messi for his exceptional contributions to the league, highlighting the impact he has had since his arrival. “I’m here tonight not just to attend the game but to present Leo with the Golden Boot,” Garber remarked. “I don’t think we ever could have imagined that Leo would have been able to deliver for this club, for this city, and for this league the way he has.”
Shortly before this game, Inter Miami announced that Messi had signed a three-year contract extension, ensuring that he will remain with the club through the 2028 season. Garber expressed his excitement, stating, “He has reset the trajectory for Major League Soccer… and I think having three more years is just going to be another gift.” With Messi, ticket sales have soared, and the value of Inter Miami has reportedly doubled since his signing.
As Messi aims for his second consecutive league MVP title and leads in assists with 19 this season, he continues to break records and redefine expectations for the league. If successful, Messi would become the first player in MLS history to win MVP honors in back-to-back seasons.
Messi’s new contract indicates he could play for Inter Miami into his early 40s, further solidifying his status as one of soccer’s greatest icons. “I think he’s the unicorn of unicorns,” Garber remarked, praising Messi’s unique understanding of the game and his relentless drive to win.
Inter Miami’s announcement of Messi’s signing was notable, utilizing a social media video that showcased him signing his contract on the future field of the club’s new stadium, set to open next year near Miami International Airport.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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