Inter Miami have never reached the Major League Soccer (MLS) Conference Semi-finals. Today, Lionel Messi and his teammates had the opportunity to make history. However, they failed to capitalise on the chance at Geodis Park, home of Nashville SC. Despite Messi finding the net in the 90th minute, Inter Miami succumbed to a 2-1 defeat after conceding two earlier goals.
Nevertheless, this loss does not end Miami’s hopes of progressing to the Conference Semi-finals. They will face Nashville again on 8 November, with the winner of that match advancing to the next round.
At Geodis Park, Miami conceded twice—once in the 9th minute and again just before half-time. Sam Surridge opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the ninth minute after Miami goalkeeper Roco Ríos was penalised for a foul inside the area.
Following the match, Miami coach Javier Mascherano voiced his frustration with the referee’s decision: “The penalty was a big blow for us because we were playing really well until that point. I think it was a controversial decision. I usually don’t like to comment on refereeing, but this time I must say it felt strange that the penalty call wasn’t reviewed by VAR.” Nashville doubled their lead before the break through Josh Bauer.
In the closing stages, Inter Miami pressed hard for a goal. Messi finally struck in the 90th minute, driving a sharp shot into the far corner after cutting into the box. During stoppage time, Miami pushed desperately for an equaliser but were unable to break through Nashville’s resilient defence, leaving the pitch with a disappointing loss.
The MLS play-offs follow a “best-of-three” format in the first round. If the same team wins the opening two matches, the third game is not required. Having won the first match 3-1, Inter Miami had a chance to seal their semi-final spot tonight. However, Nashville’s victory means the tie will now be decided in a decisive third game, scheduled for 8 November at Chase Stadium.