NASHVILLE – An 89th-minute goal from Lionel Messi was not enough to save Inter Miami as Nashville SC earned a 2-1 win in the MLS Cup round one playoff series on Saturday, forcing a decisive third game.
Nashville took early control with first-half goals from Sam Surridge and Josh Bauer at a rain-soaked Geodis Park. Surridge opened the scoring in the ninth minute from the penalty spot after Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo hesitated to challenge. Bauer doubled the lead just before halftime with a composed left-footed finish off a Hany Mukhtar corner.
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Inter Miami fought back in the second half, with Luis Suarez and Ian Fray both denied by Nashville’s goalkeeper Joe Willis. Messi created several late chances, eventually scoring in the 89th minute with a stunning left-footed strike into the top corner, assisted by Rodrigo De Paul.
Despite Messi’s efforts, Nashville held on to level the best-of-three series 1-1. The decider will now be hosted by Inter Miami. The winner of the series will face either Columbus Crew or FC Cincinnati, who lead their tie 1-0.
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In other results, Philadelphia Union advanced to the second round after defeating Chicago Fire 3-0, while Charlotte FC forced a third game against New York City FC following a dramatic 7-6 penalty shootout win.