Sun Nov 02 00:30:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
Inter Miami suffered a 2-1 defeat to Nashville SC in Game 2 of their first-round MLS playoff series, despite a late goal from Lionel Messi. Nashville took an early lead with goals from Sam Surridge and Josh Bauer. Miami had several missed opportunities to equalize, including a shot off the post by Luis Suárez. Messi’s late strike wasn’t enough to turn the tide, forcing a decisive Game 3 in Fort Lauderdale. This loss puts Miami’s playoff hopes in jeopardy, as they aim to avoid another first-round exit.
News Article:
Nashville SC Stuns Inter Miami, Forces Decisive Playoff Game Despite Messi Magic
NASHVILLE, TN – Nashville SC defeated Inter Miami 2-1 on Saturday night, leveling their first-round MLS playoff series at 1-1 and forcing a decisive Game 3 in Fort Lauderdale. Despite a thunderous late goal from Lionel Messi, Nashville held on to secure the victory, fueled by first-half goals from Sam Surridge and Josh Bauer.
Surridge opened the scoring from the penalty spot after being brought down by Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. Bauer then doubled the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a corner kick. Inter Miami struggled to find their rhythm, with Luis Suárez hitting the post and other chances going awry.
Messi’s late goal injected life into Miami, but Nashville’s defense held firm, denying the visitors an equalizer. The loss puts Inter Miami in a precarious position, as they aim to avoid a repeat of last year’s first-round playoff exit.
The decisive Game 3 will be played in Fort Lauderdale, with a spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals on the line. Inter Miami, despite the presence of Messi and other stars, is still searching for its first playoff series victory in franchise history.
First Piper 