Messi Leads Inter Miami to Victory in Playoff Opener

Lionel Messi once again showcased his talent across the Atlantic, scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Nashville SC during the opening match of the MLS playoffs. The 38-year-old Argentine, already the season’s top scorer with 29 goals in 28 matches, netted the first goal with a header in the 19th minute from a cross by Luis Suarez. Tadeo Allende doubled the lead shortly after the hour mark, and Messi capped off the win with a goal in injury time (90+6), just before Hany Mukhtar scored a late consolation goal for Nashville.

This victory puts Miami ahead 1-0 in the best-of-three series, with an opportunity to secure their spot in the conference semifinals on November 1st in Nashville. This performance follows the announcement of Messi’s contract extension with Inter Miami until 2028, reaffirming the club’s commitment to building their project around the 2022 World Cup champion.