Messi scores but Nashville staves off MLS Cup elimination in Game 2 win over Inter Miami

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Lionel Messi scored a late goal, but sixth-seeded Nashville secured a 2-1 victory over No. 3 seed Inter Miami in Game 2 of the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs on Saturday night. The two teams will meet again in Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 8 for a decisive Game 3.

This win marked Nashville’s first playoff victory since the 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs, when they defeated Orlando 2-1 at home in the first round. It was also Nashville’s first win over Miami since May 17, 2023, when they earned a 2-1 result.

The scoring opened early as Sam Surridge netted a penalty in the ninth minute. Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo dived the wrong way, allowing Surridge to convert the shot. Nashville extended their lead just before halftime when Josh Bauer connected with Hany Mukhtar’s corner kick in the 45th minute, making it 2-0.

Inter Miami fought back late in the match as Messi scored his sixth goal in three games against Nashville in the 90th minute, narrowing the gap. Despite Miami holding a 10-9 shot advantage, Nashville led in shots on target, with five compared to Miami’s three.

The winner of this three-game series will advance to face either No. 2 Cincinnati or No. 7 Columbus Crew in the conference semifinals. Cincinnati currently leads that series 1-0.
https://mymotherlode.com/sports/soccer-general-news/10133582/messi-scores-but-nashville-staves-off-mls-cup-elimination-in-game-2-win-over-inter-miami.html

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