Did Messi's Hat-Trick Lead Inter Miami to Victory Over Nashville?
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Synopsis
Lionel Messi's stunning hat-trick played a pivotal role in Inter Miami's 2-5 triumph over Nashville SC on MLS Decision Day. This victory not only marked a spectacular conclusion to their season but also solidified Messi's legacy in the league.
Key Takeaways
- Messi's hat-trick was crucial for the victory.
- Inter Miami scored a total of 81 goals this season.
- Messi recorded 48 goal contributions, the second most in MLS history.
- Rodríguez's goal was significant for the comeback.
- Inter Miami ended the season with a strong record of 19 wins.
Nashville, Oct 19 (NationPress) Inter Miami CF concluded the 2025 regular season with a spectacular 2-5 victory against Nashville SC on MLS Decision Day. A brilliant hat-trick from captain and Icon of the Match Lionel Messi, along with goals from midfielders Baltasar Rodriguez and Telasco Segovia, propelled the team to triumph at Geodis Park.
Remarkably, Inter Miami achieved 81 goals this regular season, marking them as only the third team in MLS history to surpass 80 goals in a single campaign.
Furthermore, with three goals and an assist in this match, Messi wrapped up the 2025 regular season with 48 goal contributions (29 goals, 19 assists), ranking second in league history, just behind Carlos Vela's 49 in 2019.
After a solid defensive start from Inter Miami’s backline, Messi broke the deadlock in the 35th minute. He received a pass from Alba, maneuvered past defenders, and found the back of the net with a precise finish to the bottom left corner from outside the box, as reported by Inter Miami.
This goal marked Messi’s 27th of the season, while the assist was Alba's 15th in this league campaign.
Nashville responded to take a 2-1 lead into halftime, with goals from Sam Surridge in the 43rd minute and Jacob Shaffelburg in stoppage time.
Messi equalized with a penalty in the 63rd minute, bringing his MLS-leading tally to 28 for the year.
Rodríguez then completed the comeback, scoring in the 67th minute, giving Inter Miami a 2-3 lead after capitalizing on a loose ball inside the box from a Suarez attempt. This was his third goal of the season.
In the final ten minutes, Inter Miami sealed the impressive away victory with two additional goals. Messi completed his hat-trick in the 81st minute, curling the ball into the far post after a clever give-and-go with substitute Ian Fray.
Messi then assisted Segovia, another second-half substitute, who scored from close range in the first minute of added time. This brought Messi’s season total to 48 goal contributions (29 goals, 19 assists), just shy of Vela's record.
Segovia finished the season with eight goals, while Fray registered three assists in the league over 2025.
The 2-5 scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle. Inter Miami concluded the regular season in third place in the Eastern Conference, boasting a record of 19 wins, 7 losses, and 8 draws, totaling 65 points.
Point of View
I believe this match underscores Messi's unparalleled impact on the league. His performance not only boosts Inter Miami's standing but also highlights the growing competitive spirit in MLS. This game was a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of soccer in the United States.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Messi perform in the match?
Lionel Messi delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist, totaling 48 contributions for the season.
What was the final score of the match?
The final score was 2-5 in favor of Inter Miami CF.
How many goals did Inter Miami score this season?
Inter Miami scored a remarkable 81 goals during the regular season.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at Geodis Park in Nashville.
What was Inter Miami's final position in the Eastern Conference?
Inter Miami finished the regular season in third place.
