Nashville SC Holds Off Inter Miami 2–1 in Thrilling MLS Playoff Encounter

By Alonso Contreras

Nashville, TN — Nashville SC claimed a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Inter Miami in Round 2 of the MLS Playoffs, setting up a decisive return leg at Chase Stadium where the visitors will look to overturn the deficit. The win not only gives Nashville a psychological edge but also raises doubts for Inter Miami, who are still smarting from a Round 1 elimination at the hands of Atlanta United last season.

⚽ Nashville Dominates Early: Surridge and Bauer Deliver

Nashville took control early in the match. In the 9th minute, Sam Surridge converted a penalty with a precise right-footed strike to the bottom right corner, putting the home side ahead 1–0. Nashville continued to press, and just before halftime, Josh Bauer doubled the advantage with a clinical left-footed finish from the center of the box in the 45th minute.

Miami struggled to respond in open play, with Luis Suárez hitting the post in the 19th minute and Lionel Messi narrowly missing several chances, including a high xG opportunity in the 14th minute.

🔥 Messi Strikes Late But Insufficient

Inter Miami rallied in the second half, with Lionel Messi breaking Nashville’s resistance in the 90th minute. Assisted by Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s left-footed strike to the top right corner brought the score to 2–1. While the goal showcased Messi’s continued brilliance — he now has 40 goals in the 2025 calendar year, the most by any MLS player in history — it wasn’t enough to rescue his side. Messi also needs just one more assist to reach 400 in his professional career, a milestone within reach as the playoffs progress.

Despite Miami’s late pressure, Nashville’s defense held firm, and goalkeeper Joe Willis made crucial saves to secure the win.

🏆 Looking Ahead: Decisive Clash at Chase Stadium

With the series moving to Miami for the second leg, Nashville SC will be confident heading into enemy territory. Inter Miami, on the other hand, will be cautious, recalling last season’s painful third-game loss in Round 1 against Atlanta United.

Nashville’s early dominance and timely finishing have given them a psychological advantage, while Miami must find a way to contain Messi and create more clinical opportunities to force extra time or advance.

Final Score:Nashville SC 2 – 1 Inter Miami CF

Goals:

• Nashville SC: Sam Surridge (9’ Penalty), Josh Bauer (45’)

• Inter Miami CF: Lionel Messi (90’)

Key Facts:

• Messi reaches 40 goals in the 2025 calendar year, an MLS record.

• Nashville SC heads to Miami with momentum and confidence in the series.

The stage is now set for a high-stakes rematch at Chase Stadium, where one team will move closer to the MLS Conference Semifinals.