Inter Miami Cruise Past Nashville in Dominant Playoff Victory

Inter Miami CF showed no mercy in their Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs opener, cruising to a 3–1 victory over Nashville SC in a match they controlled from start to finish. From the opening whistle to the 90th minute (plus an incredible 11 minutes of stoppage time), it was all Miami — confident, clinical, and composed.

Total Control from Start to Finish

From the very start, Inter Miami displayed total dominance, pressing high and dictating the tempo. The experience and composure of players like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets made a clear difference against a Nashville side that struggled to find rhythm or possession.

Messi opened the scoring early after a clever setup from Suárez, setting the tone for what would become a near-flawless team performance. While Nashville tried to respond through counterattacks, their efforts were easily contained by a well-organized Miami defense led by Noah Allen and Falcón.

Second Half: Miami’s Masterclass

At halftime, Inter’s staff focused on shutting down Nashville’s counters — and the plan worked perfectly. The second half was pure control. In the 62nd minute, Tomás Allende doubled the lead after a slick combination play involving Ian Fray and Messi.

Messi later sealed the victory with a brace in stoppage time, while Hany Mukhtar scored a late consolation goal for Nashville — a “beautiful bomb,” but too little, too late.

Post-Match Reaction: Rodrigo De Paul

“We took the playoffs very seriously and prepared well. The most important thing now is to rest and be ready for the next stage. I’m also happy that Messi extended his contract — it’s a privilege to play with him, and he’s one of my best friends.”

Summary

This was a statement win for Inter Miami — a team that’s playing like true title contenders. With Messi in unstoppable form and Allende’s growing influence, Miami look ready for the next playoff round and possibly a historic run toward their first MLS Cup.