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Inter Miami CF 3-1 Nashville SC: Messi Shines as Inter Miami Cruises to Concacaf Champions League Quarterfinals
Inter Miami CF secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Nashville SC on Wednesday night, advancing to the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League with a 5-3 aggregate win.
The night belonged to Lionel Messi, who kickstarted the scoring and displayed his trademark magic before departing early due to a minor injury.
Early Goals and Messi Magic Put Miami in Charge
The game began with a bang, as Messi earned a free kick just four minutes in. Although his attempt was blocked, the foreshadowing was clear. Moments later, Messi’s vision came into play with a perfectly weighted pass to Luis Suarez, who slotted the ball home to open the scoring.
Miami doubled their lead in 23 minutes, with Messi himself on the scoresheet. Receiving a pass from Diego Gómez, the Argentine maestro finished coolly from inside the box, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Inter Miami Extends Lead, Nashville Pulls One Back
The second half saw Nashville threaten an unlikely comeback. However, Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender stood firm with two crucial saves to preserve the lead.
The home side then effectively sealed the game around the hour mark. A pinpoint cross from Suarez found Robert Taylor, who rose majestically to head the ball past the Nashville keeper, extending Miami’s advantage to 3-0.
Nashville managed a consolation goal in stoppage time through Sam Surridge, but it proved too little, too late. The final whistle blew, and Inter Miami celebrated a comprehensive victory.
Messi Man of the Moment Despite Early Substitution
Despite his early departure due to a muscle overload in his right leg, Messi was undoubtedly the star of the show. He wasted no time making an impact, contributing to both of Miami’s first-half goals.
Coach Gerardo Martino revealed post-match that the decision to substitute Messi was a precautionary measure. “We don’t want to take any kind of risk with him,” Martino said. The rest seemed to benefit Messi initially, as he was instrumental in Miami’s strong start.
Messi a thorn in Nashville’s Side Once Again
This victory marked the fourth time Nashville has faced Messi since he arrived in MLS last year. Each of their previous encounters had resulted in draws, except the dramatic 2023 Leagues Cup final, where Miami triumphed 10-9 on penalties.
In that match, Messi scored both a goal in regulation and the first penalty kick, helping Miami secure their first-ever trophy.
Speaking before the match, Nashville coach Gary Smith acknowledged the immense challenge Messi presents.
“He’s proved throughout his career that no matter how good you are defensive, the calibre of the individual will always find a way,” Smith said.
While Messi’s early exit limited his influence in the second half, his impact in the opening period proved decisive.
Inter Miami will now turn their attention to the upcoming quarterfinal matchup against the winner of the FC Cincinnati vs Monterrey clash, while Messi is expected to feature in at least some capacity for Argentina’s friendlies later this month.
My name is Krishanu Das the founder of the Sports Dribble.
I am Accountant by profession but a Sports Blogger by passion.
I am passionate about sharing my all knowledge and experiences of sports, with my readers and every sports enthusiast.
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