Inter Miami stormed into their first-ever MLS Cup semi-final after a stunning 4-0 victory over Nashville SC, powered by a vintage Lionel Messi performance on Saturday night.
The 38-year-old Argentine superstar was at his brilliant best, scoring twice in the first half before setting up two more goals for teammate Tadeo Allende in the second period.
The emphatic win saw Miami clinch the best-of-three series 2-1, having earlier recorded a 3-2 win in the opener and a 2-1 loss in the second game.
Messi’s influence was unmatched throughout the series — contributing to all eight of Miami’s goals with five goals and three assists. His all-round performance drew high praise from head coach Javier Mascherano.
“I want to congratulate Leo for the game he played,” said Mascherano. “He was the first one who guided us in high pressure. To see him press like that at 38 years old is crazy. We all know about Leo with the ball, but what happened with Leo without the ball today was impressive.”
The result marks a historic moment for Inter Miami, who had previously fallen in the first round in two of the past three seasons. They will now face FC Cincinnati in a one-off semi-final set for the weekend of November 22–23.
In Saturday’s other quarter-final clash, Minnesota United edged out Seattle Sounders 7-6 on penalties after a dramatic 3-3 draw. Minnesota will next play the winner of Sunday’s game between Portland Trailblazers and San Diego FC.