Messi Shines with Brace as Inter Miami Eliminate Nashville in MLS Playoffs

Lionel Messi produced a dazzling display with two goals and two assists as Inter Miami reached the MLS Cup Playoffs semi-finals for the first time in their history, following a commanding 4–0 win over Nashville SC in Game 3 of their first-round series on Saturday night in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The Argentine maestro was directly involved in all eight of Miami’s goals across the three-match series, finishing with five goals and three assists. Messi has now scored 15 times against Nashville in all competitions — more than against any other MLS opponent.

By contrast, he has yet to find the net against second-seeded FC Cincinnati, who will host Miami in the Eastern Conference semi-final in two weeks’ time.

Messi at His Mercurial Best

Despite the absence of key forward Luis Suárez, who was suspended following his kick on Andy Najar in Game 2, Miami made light work of their visitors. Tadeo Allende struck twice in the second half and provided an assist as the Herons cruised to a landmark victory.

Messi opened the scoring in the 10th minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse from Nashville. Ian Fray’s pressing forced Matthew Corcoran into a poor back pass that deflected into Messi’s path. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner surged forward, dribbled past retreating defender Jack Maher, and unleashed a low drive from 20 yards that beat goalkeeper Joe Willis at the near post.

His second came in the 39th minute after more hesitant defending. Jordi Alba’s speculative long ball down the left was misjudged by Walker Zimmerman, allowing Mateo Silvetti to collect and square the ball neatly into Messi’s path for a simple finish.

Allende Finishes the Job

Nashville thought they had found a way back seconds after half-time through Sam Surridge, but his effort was ruled out for a foul on Maxi Falcón. From that point, it was all Miami.

Messi and Alba combined once again in the 73rd minute, working the ball intricately inside the box before Allende swept home a low finish through a crowded defence. Three minutes later, the Argentine turned provider, sliding an incisive through ball into Allende’s run, and the forward coolly chipped past Willis to complete his brace.

A Statement Victory for Miami

The emphatic result capped a dominant series for Gerardo Martino’s men, who advance with renewed belief as they eye their maiden MLS Cup title. For Nashville, it marked a third successive first-round exit — a disappointing end to BJ Callaghan’s first full season in charge.

With Messi in imperious form and Miami firing on all fronts, FC Cincinnati will know they face a formidable challenge in the semi-final.