Lionel Messi delivered a spectacular performance to lead Inter Miami to a decisive 4-0 victory over Nashville SC. The Argentine superstar scored two goals and assisted on two others, single-handedly sparking his team’s advance in the MLS Cup playoffs.
Inter Miami won the best-of-three Eastern Conference series 2-1. This crucial victory books a second-round matchup against FC Cincinnati.
Messi opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a left-footed strike from the top of the box. He then doubled the lead just before halftime, firing home from outside the area off a pass from teenager Mateo Silvetti.
After the break, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner turned provider. He first set up compatriot Tadeo Allende for a close-range finish in the 73rd minute. Just three minutes later, Messi delivered a long pass that Allende expertly chipped over the goalkeeper to seal the 4-0 rout.
Messi 🤝 Silvetti 🤩 VAMOSSSS pic.twitter.com/hmuoDi0cVx
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) November 9, 2025Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano was full of praise for his team, particularly for Messi. “I want to congratulate Leo for the game he played,” Mascherano said. “He was the first one who guided us in high pressure. To see him press like that at 38 years old is crazy.”
The coach described the team’s overall performance as “almost perfect.” He also expressed relief at avoiding another early playoff exit, a fate that had “remained a bit in the atmosphere” after last season’s disappointment.
Read: Lionel Messi Hopes to Play in 2026 World Cup
The win sets up a challenging Eastern Conference semifinal against FC Cincinnati. Mascherano acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match but noted his team had “very good feelings” from their previous encounter.
In other playoff action, Minnesota United staged a dramatic comeback to eliminate the Seattle Sounders 7-6 on penalty kicks after a 3-3 draw. Minnesota will advance to face the winner of the Portland vs. San Jose match
