Inter Miami begins its MLS Cup Playoffs journey at home against Nashville SC in the opening match of the Round One best-of-three series. Softfootball reported that Miami heads into the playoffs on a positive note after defeating Nashville 5-2 on MLS Decision Day, highlighted by a hat-trick from Lionel Messi along with contributions from Baltasar Rodríguez and Telasco Segovia.
Miami concluded the regular season with 81 goals, becoming one of only three MLS teams to exceed the 80-goal threshold. The MLS Cup represents Miami’s last chance to claim a trophy this year after earlier setbacks in the Leagues Cup and Concacaf Champions Cup. With reports confirming that veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets are set to retire, the pair will be eager to make a lasting impact before their departures.
As previously stated by Softfootball, Messi has signed a three-year contract extension ahead of the playoffs, providing a boost in morale for the team. He claimed the 2025 MLS Golden Boot with impressive statistics of 29 goals and 19 assists. The club marked this achievement through their official X account, where they celebrated his success.
Team News
Lionel Messi is confirmed to be fit after sitting out a training session earlier in the week due to back issues.
He is anticipated to play alongside Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. Other injuries affecting the squad include Allen Obando and David Ruiz.
A video featuring club co-owner David Beckham in the run-up to the playoffs was shared on the club’s official X account. Watch below:
Nashville SC’s injury report includes Wyatt Meyer and Julian Gaines as being out, while Ahmed Qasem’s status remains uncertain. Key players Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar are confirmed to be available and are expected to be starting, along with defender Walker Zimmerman likely joining the lineup.
Nashville SC shared images of their players preparing for the match on their official X account, which included their training sessions.
Possible Lineups
Inter Miami (4-2-3-1): Rios; Fray, Allen, Maxi Falcon, Alba; De Paul, Busquets; Allende, Messi, Rodriguez; Suarez.
Nashville SC (4-3-3): Willis; Najar, Maher, Zimmerman, Lovitz; Brugman, Acosta, Muyl; Boyd, Mukhtar, Surridge.
Inter Miami 3 – 2 Nashville SC
Inter Miami is favored heading into the match, bolstered by home-field advantage and Messi’s outstanding form. Nashville will need a solid defensive strategy and effective scoring from Surridge and Mukhtar to meet Miami’s offensive strength.
The first match is set to be intense, with Miami seeking to establish a strong lead in this best-of-three series.
