Lionel Messi delivered another playoff masterclass, scoring twice as Inter Miami CF defeated Nashville SC 3-1 in the opening match of their MLS first-round playoff series. The win gives Miami a crucial 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series and sends a clear message to the rest of the league: Messi and company are here to contend.
Messi Strikes Again
The atmosphere at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale was electric, and Messi wasted no time reminding fans why he’s still the world’s most captivating player. The Argentine superstar opened the scoring in the 19th minute, finishing off a slick team move that left Nashville’s defense scrambling. He capped his night with a dramatic stoppage-time goal (90’+6), sealing the victory and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Tadeo Allende added Miami’s second goal in the 62nd minute, showcasing the team’s attacking depth. Nashville’s Hany Mukhtar managed a late consolation goal deep into stoppage time (90’+11), but it was too little, too late for the visitors.
By the Numbers
-
Possession: Inter Miami
55%, Nashville SC
45%-
Shots: Inter Miami 12, Nashville SC 7
-
Expected Goals (xG): Inter Miami 2.34, Nashville SC 0.62
-
Big Chances: Inter Miami 5, Nashville SC 2
Miami’s dominance was clear not just on the scoreboard, but in the flow of the game. The hosts created more chances, controlled possession, and looked sharper in the final third.
What This Means for the Series
With this win, Inter Miami takes a commanding lead in the best-of-three series. The pressure now shifts to Nashville SC, who must regroup quickly if they hope to keep their playoff hopes alive. The next match will be pivotal—another Miami win would send them through to the next round, while a Nashville victory would force a decisive third game.
Injury Watch
Both teams are dealing with injury concerns as the playoffs heat up. Miami is missing several key players, including Allen Obando and David Ruiz (both hamstring injuries), while Nashville will be hoping for a quick turnaround from their squad.
The Messi Effect
Messi’s arrival in Miami has transformed the club’s fortunes, and his playoff performances are only adding to his legend. With every touch, he brings a sense of inevitability—and as long as he’s on the pitch, Miami looks like a genuine title threat.
What’s Next?
The series now heads to Nashville, where the home side will look to bounce back in front of their fans. All eyes will be on Messi and whether Nashville can find a way to contain him. If not, Miami’s playoff run could be just getting started.
Sources
1. Inter Miami CF Visits Nashville FC for Decision Day 2025
2. Most NFL Fantasy Football Points in a Game - Bleacher Nation
3. Inter Miami CF vs Nashville SC live score, H2H and lineups
4. 2025 NHL Mock Draft: Blackhawks Snag the Best Defenseman ...
5. Inter Miami CF vs Nashville SC - live score, predicted ... - FotMob
6. Fiorentina live scores, results, fixtures, Inter | Soccer, Italy
7. Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami CF - October 24, 2025 | Live Scores, Updates, Odds, Injury News and Recaps
8. Soccer Live Scores, Latest Soccer Results | Flashscore
9. Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami CF: Oct 18, 2025
10. Winners and Losers: Nyom sees red after 37 seconds, Kane ...
11. inter miami cf vs nashville sc: Latest News & Videos, Photos about inter miami cf vs nashville sc | The Economic Times - Page 1
12. results, fixtures, Grasshoppers - Young Boys live - Flashscore.ca
13. Nashville Sc Vs Inter Miami Fc Preview – Latest News Information updated on March 13, 2024 | Articles & Updates on Nashville Sc Vs Inter Miami Fc Preview | Photos & Videos | LatestLY
14. Inter Miami CF vs. Nashville SC - October 24, 2025
15. Inter Miami CF vs. Nashville SC | October 24, 2025
16. Inter Miami CF vs. Nashville SC - Boxscore: Oct 24, 2025 - FOX Sports
