Lionel Messi’s two goals and two assists propelled Inter Miami past Nashville SC with a dominant 4-0 win, securing their spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals against FC Cincinnati.
Lionel Messi delivered a spectacular performance, scoring two goals and providing two assists, to lead third-seeded Inter Miami to a commanding 4-0 victory over sixth-seeded Nashville SC on Saturday night.
The decisive Game 3 win in the first-round Eastern Conference playoff series secures Miami a spot in the East semifinals, marking a new franchise milestone.
The Argentine superstar was the driving force behind the victory, putting the Herons ahead early with a strike from the top of the 18-yard box in the 10th minute.
He completed his brace in the 39th minute, tapping in a pass from Mateo Silvetti for an empty-net goal and a 2-0 halftime lead.
Messi’s playmaking continued in the second half, setting up both of Tadeo Allende’s goals, which occurred just three minutes apart.
The victory capped off a dominant series for Miami, who outscored Nashville 8-3, with Messi contributing to all eight goals (five goals, three assists).
Coach Javier Mascherano praised the team’s execution, stating, “I would say the team played a near-perfect game, through the defense, midfield and attack.”
The win keeps Miami’s title hopes alive and bolsters Messi’s case for a second consecutive MLS MVP award.
Inter Miami will now face a single-elimination challenge against FC Cincinnati on November 22 or 23. Miami veteran Jordi Alba acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead, adding,
“We know Cincinnati will be a tough test.” This marks the furthest Inter Miami has advanced in the MLS playoffs.