Inter Miami Triumphs 2-1 Over Nashville SC with Lionel Messi’s Brace
In a thrilling Week 20 matchup of the MLS, Inter Miami celebrated a 2-1 victory over Nashville SC. Lionel Messi showcased his incredible talent by scoring two stunning goals; the first came from a powerful free kick in the 16th minute of the first half, while the second solidified the score in the 61st minute with a precise finish. Nashville managed to equalize briefly in the second half with a header from Andy Nájar just three minutes after Messi’s first goal.
Messi had a remarkable performance throughout the match, not only netting two goals but also completing three shots and tallying an impressive 42 accurate passes.
Andy Nájar was a notable presence for Nashville SC, contributing significantly to their performance by scoring the equalizer.
Early in the match, Jacob Shaffelburg caught attention by skillfully nutmegging Inter Miami’s Sergio Busquets within the first six minutes.
Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, arranged his team in a 4-4-2 formation, featuring Óscar Ustari in goal; a defensive line consisting of Marcelo Weigandt, Maximiliano Falcón, David Martínez, and Jordi Alba; a midfield comprised of Tadeo Allende, Benjamin Cremaschi, Sergio Busquets, and Telasco Segovia; and the attacking duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.
On the opposing side, B. J. Callaghan’s team lined up in a 4-3-3 formation with Joseph Willis guarding the net; a defensive quartet of Andy Nájar, Jack Maher, Jeisson Palacios, and Daniel Lovitz; midfielders Hany Mukhtar, Edvard Tagseth, and Patrick Yazbek; and forwards Ahmed Qasem, Sam Surridge, and Jacob Shaffelburg.
Filip Dujic officiated the match, ensuring fair play throughout the game.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will host Atlanta United in their next match, while Nashville SC will play against Columbus Crew at home.
Substitutions for Inter Miami
- 65’ 2T – Tadeo Allende out for Federico Redondo; Telasco Segovia out for Baltasar Rodríguez
- 81’ 2T – Luis Suárez out for Tomás Avilés
- 95’ 2T – Marcelo Weigandt out for Ryan Sailor
Yellow Cards for Inter Miami
- 51’ 2T – Telasco Segovia; 41’ 2T – Marcelo Weigandt
Substitutions for Nashville SC
- 53’ 2T – Jacob Shaffelburg out for Alex Muyl
- 63’ 2T – Patrick Yazbek out for Gastón Brugman
- 64’ 2T – Jeisson Palacios out for Walker Zimmerman
- 77’ 2T – Ahmed Qasem out for Julian Gaines; Edvard Tagseth out for Matthew Corcoran
Yellow Cards for Nashville SC
- 24’ 1T – Patrick Yazbek; 47’ 2T – Jack Maher (for holding an opponent to prevent their advancement).