Lionel Messi once again stole the spotlight as Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Nashville SC in the first game of the Round 1 playoff series. Below you will see complete information that has been summarized by The Football Insight.
Fresh off receiving the MLS Golden Boot trophy, Messi delivered two goals and one assist to lead his team to a commanding win at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. Tadeo Allende also found the net in the first half, completing a dominant performance for the home side.
Head coach Javier Mascherano praised his team’s collective effort, emphasizing the importance of unity during the playoffs. “At this stage, all players are important,” Mascherano said. “To reach the highest level, we’re going to need everyone. The message is to stay ready for every challenge.”
The victory gave Inter Miami the upper hand in the best-of-three series. They now travel to Nashville on November 1, needing just one more win to advance to the knockout round of the postseason. Confidence is high as the club looks to continue its remarkable run under Messi’s leadership.
Golden Boot Glory and a Historic Night
Before kickoff, MLS commissioner Don Garber presented Lionel Messi with the 2025 MLS Golden Boot award after his sensational season. The Argentine star scored 29 goals in 28 games, securing the title of top scorer for the first time since joining Inter Miami in 2023. Garber praised Messi’s transformative impact, saying, “We never could have imagined the way Leo would deliver for this club, this city, and this league.”
The award ceremony came just a day after Inter Miami announced Messi’s three-year contract extension, keeping him in South Florida through 2028. Garber called the extension “a gift that keeps on giving,” acknowledging the immense excitement Messi brings to MLS.
Messi, who is also a strong favorite to win his second consecutive MVP title. They are continues to redefine success in Major League Soccer. Alongside his 29 goals, he recorded 19 assists, tying for the league lead and proving that his brilliance extends far beyond scoring.
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The Messi Effect On and Off the Field
Since arriving in Miami in July 2023, Messi has completely reshaped the club’s fortunes. He guided Inter Miami to their first-ever Leagues Cup triumph that same year and helped them secure the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. His arrival also propelled the team to an MLS record for most points in a single season.
Messi won the 2024 MVP award and remains the frontrunner for 2025. So potentially becoming the first player in MLS history to claim the honor in back-to-back seasons. His influence, however, extends beyond the pitch—driving record ticket sales. They are boosting television audiences and doubling Inter Miami’s market value to around $1.2 billion.
At 38, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. His combination of intelligence, passion, and relentless drive continues to inspire teammates and captivate fans worldwide. Garber described him as “the unicorn of unicorns,” praising his unmatched mentality and obsession with winning.
A Legacy That Transcends the Game
Messi’s renewed commitment to Inter Miami ensures that his legacy in the United States will continue to grow. His presence has elevated MLS to unprecedented heights, attracting global attention and new generations of fans. “He’s changed the trajectory of this league,” Garber said. “It’s been thrilling to watch him play and see how happy he is here.”
Off the field, Messi’s professionalism and humility have set new standards for athletes in American soccer. His leadership has become a cornerstone of Inter Miami’s rise, blending superstar brilliance with team-oriented values.
With Miami’s new stadium near Miami International Airport set to open next year, Messi’s journey in MLS is far from over. His influence—on performance, culture, and business—continues to shape the future of the league. For Inter Miami and MLS alike, the Messi era is not just a story of goals but of transformation and legacy. Also take advantage of your free time to explore more of the latest football news with just a click at footballcoasters.co.uk.