In his long-awaited return to the Inter Miami lineup, Lionel Messi showed his brilliance, contributing a goal and an assist in a resounding 3-1 victory over Nashville in the second game of the CONCACAF Champions League.
Messi Shines in Miami Again
The magic between Messi and former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez was evident when they combined beautifully for the opening goal just eight minutes into the match. The Argentine maestro then added another goal in the first half, leading Inter Miami to an early 2-0 lead.
However, Messi's night was cut short when he was substituted in the 50th minute, leaving fans wondering about the reason for his early exit. Despite missing Sunday's game against Montreal, his absence was only felt in that one game this season.
Taking Messi's place, Robert Taylor made an immediate impact by finding the back of the net in the 63rd minute to extend Inter Miami's lead to 3-0.
With the win, Inter Miami secured its place in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League with a 5-3 advantage in total goals over the two legs.
Recalling the first match in Nashville, where Messi and Suarez orchestrated a thrilling comeback with late heroics, the tie ended in a 2-2 draw. Messi's resilience was highlighted when he suffered an injury scare late in the match, but his determination kept him on the field until the final whistle.
Listed as questionable with a shin injury prior to Sunday's clash against Montreal, Lionel Messi's absence was not the result of any unexpected setback.
Gerardo "Tata" Martino, the head coach, clarified after the match that resting Messi was always part of the plan.
This strategic decision seemed to pay off handsomely on Wednesday, as Messi wasted no time in exerting his influence on the game.
Next stop @TheChampions Quarterfinals ⚽️🏆
Details: https://t.co/OWg2zML5WL pic.twitter.com/wxVMtQ1Lif
- Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) March 14, 2024
Miami Dominated From the Start
Just four minutes into the match, he was fouled by Nashville's Anibal Godoy, earning a free kick. Although his initial attempt was blocked, Messi's tactical astuteness was evident moments later.
With pinpoint accuracy, he sent a pass to Luis Suarez, who masterfully sent the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.
Not content with just an assist, Messi capitalized on a pass from Diego Gomez to score from inside the penalty area, prompting chants of his name from the euphoric fans.
Robert Taylor then added his name to the score sheet with a well-placed header courtesy of an assist from Suarez.
Despite Miami's dominance, Nashville found a glimmer of hope late in the second half when Hany Mukhtar managed to beat the defense and find the net. However, the goal was disallowed after a VAR review, ruling that Mukhtar was in an advanced position.
Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender redeemed himself with two crucial saves, but his efforts were in vain when Sam Surridge scored a consolation goal for Nashville in stoppage time.
Wednesday marked the fourth meeting between Gary Smith's Nashville side and Messi's Inter Miami since the Argentine star joined MLS. The previous meetings had ended in draws, with Miami triumphing in the 2023 Leagues Cup final after a penalty shootout.
Messi's early goal in regulation and subsequent successful penalty kick secured Miami's first trophy. Addressing the ongoing challenge of facing Messi, Smith reflected ahead of Wednesday's match that it is a never-ending task.
"You look to strategize to mitigate their influence, but their unmatched prowess has always managed to break through even the strongest defenses," Smith commented.
