Miami, USA – In an exhilarating showdown, Inter Miami secured a thrilling victory over Nashville SC in the Leagues Cup final on Saturday, triumphing in a nail-biting 10-9 penalty shootout to break the 1-1 deadlock. The game witnessed Lionel Messi extending his unbeaten streak since joining the MLS side to seven games.
The electrifying encounter kicked off with Messi making his mark in the 23rd minute, unleashing his tenth goal of the inaugural tournament with a scorching long-range shot. The ball sailed past multiple defenders before nestling into the top left corner of the net.
Nashville’s Fafa Picault responded for the home team in the 57th minute, drawing level and setting the stage for a riveting second half that saw both teams narrowly miss seizing the lead in the dynamic ebb and flow.
The dramatic climax arrived during the penalty shootout, as Nashville goalkeeper Elliot Panicco’s final kick went awry, handing Inter Miami, who entered the league in 2020, their maiden trophy.
Exuberant scenes followed, with Messi’s jubilant teammates hoisting the Argentine into the air, while Miami co-owner David Beckham reveled in the victory with triumphant fists raised high.
Reflecting on the monumental win, Inter Miami goalkeeper and Man of the Match Drake Callender said, “Being a part of our first victory in a final is an immense honor. The experience is almost surreal, filled with emotion. This team’s relentless effort day in and day out, culminating in this moment—it’s awe-inspiring to witness the determination and unity. This is something truly special, and I feel blessed to be a part of it.”
Notably, despite their subpar performance this season in MLS, Inter Miami’s offensive prowess has surged with Messi’s arrival, netting an impressive 22 goals across their last seven games.
This victory marks Messi’s 44th trophy, solidifying his record as the most decorated player in history. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was also crowned the tournament’s standout player, encompassing teams from both MLS and Liga MX.
Miami’s head coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, remarked, “The match was a tense affair, with both teams having equal chances to secure victory. The tie was a fair outcome, and the penalty shootout demanded unwavering composure, remarkable goalkeeping skills, and we emerged victorious.”
Inter Miami’s recent coaching appointment of Martino, along with the acquisition of Messi’s former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, adds further luster to the club’s achievements. Their successful Leagues Cup run has secured them a coveted CONCACAF Champions League berth.
Martino commended his team’s resilience, saying, “We faced challenges earlier, integrating numerous new players into the squad. The cohesion and spirit we’ve displayed are truly impressive.”
As Inter Miami revels in their newfound glory, the club’s transformation under Messi’s influence and a united effort stands as a testament to their determination and collective excellence.
