Inter Miami Faces Decisive Playoff Match After Nashville Victory
Nashville, TN – Inter Miami CF will head home for a decisive third match in their MLS playoff series against Nashville SC after falling 2-1 on Wednesday night. A late goal from Lionel Messi wasn’t enough to overcome a two-goal deficit established by Nashville, setting the stage for a winner-take-all clash at Chase Stadium on Saturday, november 9.
The series is tied 1-1 following Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory in the first leg last week, fueled by a brace from Messi and a goal from Tadeo Allende. Wednesday’s match saw Nashville take an early lead with a penalty converted by Sam surridge in the 8th minute, awarded after a collision between Surridge and Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo.
Nashville extended their advantage before halftime with a goal from Josh Bauer following a corner kick, with Zimmerman providing the assist.
Messi managed to pull one back for Inter Miami in the closing moments, connecting with Rodrigo De Paul before unleashing a powerful shot into the corner.Though, the Herons were unable to find an equalizer, leaving their playoff fate to be decided on home turf.
Luis Suárez also had several opportunities for Inter Miami, including a shot that hit the post, but Nashville’s defense proved resilient throughout the night.
