Messi Shines as Inter Miami Humble Nashville 4–0 to Reach MLS Cup Playoffs Second Round

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November 10, 2025
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Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance on Saturday night, scoring twice and assisting two more as Inter Miami stormed to a 4–0 victory over Nashville SC, securing their place in the next round of the MLS Cup playoffs.

The Argentine superstar opened the scoring in the 10th minute before doubling the lead in the 39th, displaying his trademark composure and precision.

Messi then turned provider in the second half, setting up Tadeo Allende for quick-fire goals in the 73rd and 76th minutes, sealing a dominant win for Miami.

Miami’s head coach Javier Mascherano praised his compatriot’s leadership and intensity, highlighting not only Messi’s attacking brilliance but also his defensive effort. “I want to congratulate Leo for the game he played,” Mascherano said. “At 38, seeing him lead the press like that is unbelievable. We all know what he can do with the ball, but what he did without it today was just as impressive.”

The victory gave Inter Miami a 2–1 win in their best-of-three Eastern Conference first-round series, booking a second-round clash against FC Cincinnati, who edged Columbus Crew 2–1 in their own decider.

Mascherano hailed his team’s all-around display, calling it one of their best performances of the season. “The team played an almost perfect game,” he said. “There are always details to improve, but we were strong in every area — intense, organized, and aggressive from the very first minute.”

For Miami, the win marked a major turnaround after suffering first-round eliminations in 2022 and 2023, falling to New York City FC and Atlanta United, respectively. “It would have been very unfair to be knocked out at this stage,” Mascherano added. “There was still some fear lingering from last year’s early exit, but now the focus is forward. This team has earned the right to dream.”

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, continues to be the driving force behind Miami’s postseason ambitions as the club seeks its first-ever MLS Cup title.