The MLS Playoffs are always a tricky proposition, even for the best teams in the league. Upsets happen often, with parity being ever-prevalent in MLS, especially in recent seasons. Inter Miami knows that all to well, as they got knocked out in the Round of 16 by Atlanta United last season despite being the top overall team in the league.
Things were a little bit different in 2025, as Miami finished third in the Eastern Conference, setting up what was sure to be a tough series against fierce rivals, Nashville SC. Game 1 went swimmingly, though, with Lionel Messi leading his team to a 3-1 victory on the back of two of his goals. For Game 2, Messi scored once again in stunning fashion, but it was too little too late against a stingy Nashville side.
Nashville SC got goals from Sam Surridge and Josh Bauer in Game 2 of Best of Three series
Nashville was the better team for almost the entire match. Impressive pressing had Miami’s attack frazzled and looking for answers. They couldn’t find them, while Nashville struck twice in the first half through Sam Surridge and Josh Bauer. It was more of the same early in the second half, but Nashville missed some chances and Rocco Rios Novo made some crucial saves.
With Nashville sitting back with a two-goal lead, Miami started picking up the pace with the ball. That led to Messi’s goal, a firecracker of a shot from just inside the top of the box. Messi’s defender gave him a shocking amount of space, and the Argentinian made Nashville pay.
The nerves then kicked in a bit for the home fans, but Nashville defended strongly for the final seven minutes or so. With the win, Nashville forced a do-or-die final match in South Florida, which will be played on Saturday, November 8.
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