Quick Read
- Lionel Messi scored twice to lead Inter Miami to a 2-1 win over Nashville SC.
- Messi’s goals extended his MLS-record streak of consecutive multi-goal games to five.
- Nashville’s Hany Mukhtar briefly equalized before Messi’s decisive second goal.
- Inter Miami’s victory marked their fifth consecutive MLS win, boosting their playoff hopes.
In a pulsating Major League Soccer (MLS) clash on Saturday, July 12, 2025, Lionel Messi once again demonstrated why he remains one of the greatest footballers of all time. His two goals not only secured Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Nashville SC but also extended his MLS-record streak of five consecutive multi-goal games. The match, held at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was a spectacle of high stakes and individual brilliance, showcasing Messi’s unparalleled talent and leadership.
Messi’s Record-Breaking Performance
The 38-year-old Argentine superstar opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a sublime free kick that pierced through Nashville’s defensive wall and left goalkeeper Joe Willis helpless. This marked Messi’s 69th career goal from a direct free kick, and his sixth in an Inter Miami jersey. According to Al Jazeera, this goal also extended his streak of scoring in six consecutive MLS matches, a feat he had last achieved during his Barcelona days in 2012.
Messi’s second goal came in the 62nd minute, capitalizing on a critical error by Nashville’s goalkeeper. Willis, attempting to clear the ball, inadvertently sent it straight to Messi, who effortlessly maneuvered around him and slotted the ball into the net. As reported by ESPN, this goal not only sealed the win for Miami but also highlighted Messi’s opportunistic instincts and composure under pressure.
Nashville’s Resistance and Mukhtar’s Equalizer
Nashville SC, entering the match on a club-record 15-game unbeaten streak, was no pushover. Their determination paid off early in the second half when Hany Mukhtar, assisted by Andy Najar, leveled the score with a perfectly timed header. Mukhtar’s goal, his 10th of the season, briefly reignited Nashville’s hopes of extending their remarkable run.
Despite Nashville’s resilience, their defense struggled to contain Messi’s relentless attacks. Sam Surridge, Nashville’s leading scorer with 16 goals, was effectively neutralized by Miami’s defense, leaving him unable to add to his tally. New Age BD noted that this loss marked Nashville’s first defeat since April 19, 2025, underscoring the significance of Messi’s impact on the game.
Inter Miami’s Rising Momentum
Inter Miami’s victory over Nashville represents their fifth consecutive MLS win, solidifying their position as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. With 38 points from 19 matches, they are now just five points behind league leaders Philadelphia Union, with three games in hand. According to Fox Sports, Miami dominated possession during the match, controlling 53% and delivering eight shots on target compared to Nashville’s three.
Manager Javier Mascherano lauded Messi’s contributions, calling him “the flag of our team” and a leader who inspires his teammates to perform at their best. However, Mascherano also hinted at the need to manage Messi’s workload, stating, “At some point, we are going to have to find a space to give him some rest.”
Looking Ahead
Both teams are gearing up for their next fixtures on Wednesday, with Inter Miami traveling to Cincinnati and Nashville hosting Columbus. For Miami, the challenge will be to maintain their momentum while managing a demanding schedule. For Nashville, the focus will be on regrouping and returning to their winning ways after a rare setback.
As Lionel Messi continues to defy age and expectations, his presence in MLS not only elevates Inter Miami but also brings unparalleled excitement to the league. His latest performance against Nashville is yet another chapter in a career that seems destined to rewrite the history books.