This Saturday, Inter Miami thrashed Nashville 4-0 at Chase Stadium in the third game of the first round of the 2025 MLS playoffs.
With braces from Lionel Messi and Tadeo Allende, Javier Mascherano’s team secured a resounding victory to close out a series that stretched longer than they would have liked.
The number 10 appeared in the 10th minute. Messi made a classic move from his repertoire, controlling the ball from the right wing to the center, eluding a couple of defenders, and with a powerful, low shot, he placed it inside the near post to open the scoring.
With the lead, Inter Miami took control of the game, dominating possession, although without creating many clear-cut chances.
Near the end of the first half came a more reassuring goal. Mateo Silvetti made a run into space and, upon entering the box, showed no selfishness, setting up Messi to make it 2-0 almost unchallenged. The 19-year-old was rewarded by the number 10, who thanked him and immediately embraced him for the brilliant play.
The second half began with a bang and a controversial moment. Nashville pulled one back through Sam Surridge, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on Maxi Falcón in the build-up.
In the 72nd minute, the third goal arrived, putting the scoreline firmly in favor of the Blue Jays. Jordi Alba played a one-two with Messi in the box and then whipped in a cross that found Tadeo Allende perfectly positioned to finish.
Four minutes later, Messi again found Allende unmarked, and he finished with exquisite skill, chipping the ball over the goalkeeper to make it 4-0 and complete the rout. This was the 400th assist of the number 10’s career.
In the Eastern Conference semifinals, Inter Miami will face FC Cincinnati in a single-elimination series, with extra time and penalties in case of a tie.
