Lionel Messi scored a goal and provided an assist as Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Nashville in the second leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 clash in Florida on Thursday. Luis Suarez opened the scoring for Miami in the eighth minute after a well-executed team play. Jordi Alba passed to Messi, who then delivered a brilliant through ball to Suarez for the first goal.
Messi extended the lead to 2-0 fifteen minutes later. The former Barcelona star received a pass from Diego Gomez and found the back of the net. Robert Taylor (63′) added another goal in the second half as Miami sealed the win. Sam Surridge scored a late consolation goal for Nashville.
Despite the positive result, Miami faces concerns over Messi’s injury. The Argentine was substituted in the 49th minute and is doubtful for their upcoming match against DC United.
Miami head coach Tata Martino expressed, “He is experiencing discomfort in the right posterior. We don’t want to take any risks. We attempted to keep him on a bit longer, but it was bothering him, so we decided to take him off.”
“I don’t want to jeopardize his recovery, but I don’t foresee him being available for Saturday’s game. We will assess his condition, conduct some tests, and monitor his progress,” he added.
He possesses an immeasurable level of trust in his choices, methods, and skills. The moment he takes control of the ball, everyone else springs into action. This poses a significant challenge for those competing against him, as well as for the midfielders and defenders, who now have to contend with unfamiliar runners,” he further stated.
