Messi, Allende Lead Inter Miami to Historic 4-0 Win Over Nashville
Almost exactly one year after their disappointing first-round playoff exit at home, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami ensured history did not repeat itself. In a commanding display, Messi and Tadeo Allende each scored twice to secure a 4-0 victory over Nashville SC, propelling Miami to the MLS knockout stage for the first time in club history.
Star striker Luis Suarez missed the decisive third game of the playoffs due to a red card suspension, watching from a suite as his teammates delivered an emphatic performance at Chase Stadium. The victory earned Inter Miami a spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals, where they will face FC Cincinnati on the road on either November 22 or 23.
Dominance From Start to Finish
With their season at stake, Inter Miami took complete control from kickoff and never looked back. Nashville, facing Miami for the fourth consecutive time, had hoped to end their run just as Atlanta United did a year earlier—but this time, Miami was relentless.
“I thought the team played an almost perfect game,” Coach Javier Mascherano said. “We played at a very high level on all our lines. We were very intense from the first minute, very organized in the high press.”
After the final whistle, the team celebrated their breakthrough victory on the field and in the locker room, where music and cheers carried deep into the night.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami’s progression marks a defining moment for the club, with eyes now set on advancing to the conference final. The return of Suarez could further boost their attacking power as they continue their postseason journey.
Author’s summary: Messi and Allende’s two-goal performances powered a historic night for Inter Miami, advancing them past Nashville SC and into the MLS semifinals for the first time.