Saturday’s match is decisive InterMiami And Nashville SC. They face each other in Game 3 of the first round of the Major League Football Playoffs, with both sides fighting to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals. Lionel Messi scored two goals in the first half.
The Herons were coming off a solid win in Game 1 at Chase Stadium two weeks ago, but were unable to replicate that performance in Tennessee. That setback forced them into a decisive third game, in which there is no room for mistakes. Just like in 2024, a home defeat would put an abrupt end to their season and title hopes.
With that in mind, Messi seemed determined to lead his team to the semi-finals of the Eastern Conference. He doesn’t want to end 2025 without lifting a trophy, and to do that his only path is to win the MLS Cup with InterMiami. That determination seemed to spread to the rest of the squad, who from the opening whistle looked focused and motivated to get past Nashville.
After nine minutes, Ian Fray won the ball high up the pitch, paving the way for Messi to launch an attack from his favorite spot. He drove at the defenders from the right, cut inside towards the center and fired an accurate low shot from the edge of the box that slid inside the goalkeeper. Joe Willis‘s right post, leaving him no chance to stop it.
Messi’s second goal
With the lead in hand, the Herons did not let up and continued to show clear dominance Nashville. They had several chances to extend their lead, first with a shot from Baltasar Rodriguez it went just wide and later came out with a volley Jordy Alba which was blocked by a defender.
Finally, in the 39th minute, Mateo Silvetti found open space to carry the ball forward and beat the opposition goalkeeper. Once in the penalty area, the young Argentinian striker set up Messi, who calmly slotted the ball into an empty net to make it 2-0.
Messi’s impressive scoring streak in the play-offs
Messi’s motivation to win MLS title is clearly reflected in his performance during the playoffs. In just three games against Nashville in the first round, the Argentine forward has scored five goals: two in Game 1, another in the second game at Geodis Park, and two more this Saturday at Chase Stadium.
#Video #Lionel #Messi #scores #crucial #brace #Inter #Miami #Nashville #MLS #Playoffs #Game