Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance once again, scoring twice and providing an assist for Sergio Busquets as Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Nashville on Saturday night. This performance marked Messi’s second brace in MLS, following his remarkable display against Orlando earlier in the season. With a goal or assist in each of the six league matches he’s played this season, Messi continues to demonstrate his unparalleled impact on the field.
Sergio Busquets, reuniting with Messi from their Barcelona days, scored his first goal for Inter Miami by heading in Messi’s corner kick. Miami’s unbeaten streak against Nashville since Messi’s arrival extends to five matches, solidifying their position at the top of the Eastern Conference standings. However, Miami faced early adversity when an own goal by Franco Neri, standing in for the injured Jordi Alba, gave Nashville an early lead.
Despite the setback, Miami quickly responded with goals from Messi and Busquets in the 11th and 39th minutes, respectively. Messi’s equalizer came from a clever tap-in after Nashville goalkeeper Elliot Panicco deflected his shot, while Busquets capitalized on Messi’s corner kick to put Miami in the lead. Goalkeeper Drake Callender preserved Miami’s advantage with a crucial diving save to deny Hany Mukhtar’s long-range effort in the 55th minute.
In the closing stages of the match, Messi sealed Miami’s victory by converting a penalty kick in the 81st minute, extending their lead to two goals. Nashville’s Josh Bauer conceded the penalty after fouling Leo Alfonso on the edge of the box, allowing Messi to calmly slot the ball past reserve goalkeeper Joe Willis. With this impressive win, Miami sets their sights on their upcoming clash with New England, while Nashville prepares to host San Jose in their next fixture.
