Messi breaks historic record, but Inter Miami is eliminated by Nashville — Concacaf Champions Cup
The match
Inter Miami started with more possession and offensive intent. Javier Mascherano’s side were looking to progress through Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, and the breakthrough came early.
Sergio Reguilón passed the ball to Messi, who ended up opening the scoring and crossing the 900-goal mark.
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Despite this leading position, the general trend has remained unchanged. Inter Miami controlled possession and generated more shots, but struggled to consistently create clear chances or keep pressure on Nashville’s defensive block.
Reguilón was one of the bright spots, coming off a strong performance against Charlotte and contributing directly to the goal. However, his night ended early due to injury, as he was forced off in the 40th minute.
In the second half, Nashville remained compact and controlled. The team didn’t create many chances but remained organized and waited for the right moment to attack.
That moment came in the 75th minute. After a deflected sequence inside the box and a save by Dayne St. Clair, the ball fell to Cristian Espinoza, who converted the rebound to equalize.
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The goal changed the dynamic of the match. With the advantage of the away goal, Nashville was successful in the final stages, while Inter Miami, despite maintaining possession, was unable to generate an effective response.
Match statistics
Key performers
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Even in elimination, Messi remains the most decisive player on the team. He scored the first goal and played a central role in almost all offensive actions.
Cristian Espinoza (Nashville SC)
Delivered at the decisive moment, taking advantage of a rebound in the area to score the goal which ensured qualification.
Concern
German Berterame
The striker continues to struggle to make an impact. Recruited for around 12 million euros, he once again failed to influence the match at a time when Inter Miami needed a stronger presence in the final third.
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Post-match reaction
Javier Mascherano said Inter Miami controlled large parts of the match but acknowledged the team’s difficulty converting possession into clear scoring chances.
He also stressed that the goal conceded was avoidable and pointed out that in knockout matches, isolated errors often determine the outcome.
What this means
The elimination represents a significant setback for Inter Miami, who had identified the Concacaf Champions Cup as one of their main goals and a potential first title for Messi in the competition.
For Nashville SC, the result reinforces its competitive maturity. The team advances to the quarterfinals, building on the momentum established last season, including their US Open Cup title.
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Nashville will face the winner of Philadelphia Union vs. Club América in the next round.
Next matches
InterMiami
Return to MLS with a road match against New York City FC, with the aim of refocusing on the race for the Supporters’ Shield.
Nashville SC
