Messi penalty miss became the defining moment as Inter Miami suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Nashville SC in a top-of-the-table MLS clash, adding another setback to Lionel Messi’s difficult return to league action.
Messi had made his first appearance since his father Jorge Messi passed away, but hadn’t been seen in the best light at GEODIS Park. Andy Nájar headed home in the 17th minute to give the lead to Nashville.
Inter Miami had a big chance six minutes later. The chance was created by Casemiro and Luis Suárez was downed in the box, giving Messi a chance to equalise. But, that was saved by Nashville goalkeeper Brian Schwake. The rebound was picked up by Sergio Reguilón, but the goal was ruled out due to encroachment on a video review.
Messi was also the assist on Telasco Segovia’s goal, which Miami levelled through in front of the home fans just before halftime. After halftime, however, the tables were turned in favor of the City of Music. The hosts got the lead back in the 49th minute but Sam Surridge took the lead in the 55th. Then Mukhtar found the net again in the 63rd minute for a 4-1 win.
That would be Messi’s third in a row without a goal, a string which ESPN Research said had not occurred since 2014. He also got a yellow card in the 59th minute and scored two goals in stoppage time.
Inter Miami’s run of seven consecutive MLS wins was snapped. Meanwhile, Miami’s nightcap of 38 points extended its dominance of the top of the league, while a resurgent Nashville scored 43.
