Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez maintained their prolific partnership in club football as Inter Miami progressed to the quarter-finals of the Concacaf Champions Cup with a 3-1 victory over Nashville on Wednesday. Following a 2-2 draw in the first leg, Miami swiftly seized control, with Messi assisting Suarez for the opening goal in the eighth minute and subsequently finding the net himself in the 23rd minute.
In the second half, Robert Taylor, substituting for Messi, secured a third goal with a well-executed header in the 63rd minute, while Sam Sturridge scored a late consolation goal for Nashville, resulting in Miami’s advancement with a 5-3 aggregate score.
There was concern for Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino as Messi was substituted in the 50th minute due to a right hamstring overload. Martino reassured that the injury was not severe, stating, “We tried to see if he could continue playing, but his discomfort persisted, prompting us to prioritize his well-being.”
Miami, making their debut in the competition, will face the winner of the second leg between Monterrey from Liga MX and FC Cincinnati from Major League Soccer in the quarter-finals. Monterrey currently holds a 1-0 lead from the first leg.
The match in Tennessee witnessed Nashville taking a two-goal lead initially, only for Messi and Suarez to orchestrate a comeback, resulting in a 2-2 draw. Once again, the former Barcelona duo proved pivotal in Miami’s victory.
Despite the attention on Barcelona veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets within the Miami team, the emergence of young midfielder Diego Gomez has been noteworthy. Gomez’s dynamic play contributed significantly to Miami’s second goal, which Messi expertly converted for his fifth goal in five games across all competitions this season, while Suarez has scored four goals in six games.
Martino substituted Messi for Taylor early in the second half, although Messi showed no visible signs of injury. Following Messi’s departure, Nashville intensified their attacks, but Miami’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Callender, remained resolute.
Taylor reflected on the team’s performance, stating, “We anticipated Nashville’s increased offensive efforts in the second half. Thankfully, we managed to secure the crucial third goal, and Callender’s exceptional saves ensured our victory. Every match in the Cup feels like a must-win, so progressing feels gratifying.”
The champions of the Concacaf Champions Cup will participate in December’s inaugural Intercontinental Cup and the 2025 Club World Cup featuring 32 teams.