Miami 2-1 Nashville (Jul 12, 2025) Game Analysis

Lionel Messi scored twice to lead Inter Miami to a 2-1 home victory against Nashville SC on Saturday, extending his MLS-record scoring streak. The win snapped Nashville's club-record 15-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, marking their first loss since April 19.

Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a spectacular free-kick that threaded through Nashville's defensive wall, beating goalkeeper Joe Willis. Nashville equalized in the 49th minute when Hany Mukhtar headed home Andy Najar's cross for his 10th season goal, assisted by Patrick Yazbek. Messi secured the decisive goal in the 62nd minute by intercepting Willis' errant clearance, rounding the keeper, and slotting home with his left foot.

This match marked Messi's fifth consecutive MLS game with multiple goals—a league record—and his 16th MLS goal this season, tying him for the league lead with Nashville's Sam Surridge. Inter Miami extended their unbeaten run against Nashville to five matches (4-0-1) and registered their fifth straight MLS victory overall. Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Miami visiting Cincinnati and Nashville hosting Columbus.