The drama in the MLS playoffs continues as Nashville SC edged out Inter Miami CF 2–1 in the second leg of their Round of 16 clash, keeping their postseason hopes alive. Despite a late strike from Lionel Messi, the hosts held firm to force a decisive third game.

Nashville started strong in front of their home crowd. Sam Surridge opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 9th minute, before Joshua Bauer doubled the lead just before half-time, giving the Tennessee side a commanding advantage heading into the break. Inter Miami struggled to find rhythm for most of the match, but as the clock ticked into stoppage time, Messi struck a trademark goal to narrow the deficit — 2–1.

In the first leg, Inter Miami had claimed a 3–1 victory at home, meaning the series is now level at 1–1. The decisive third match, set for November 9, will determine which side advances to the quarter-finals of the MLS Cup Playoffs.

MLS – Playoffs – Round of 16

Nashville SC – Inter Miami CF – 2:1 (2:0)
Goals: Surridge (9’, penalty) – 1:0; Bauer (45’) – 2:0; Messi (90’) – 2:1
Aggregate: 1–1