Messi Wins Golden Boot, Then Scores Twice in Playoff Victory

Lionel Messi demonstrated his elite finishing prowess on Friday night, earning the MLS Golden Boot award before the match and then immediately validating the honor with a dominant two-goal performance. Inter Miami defeated Nashville SC 3-1 in the opening game of their MLS Cup round one playoff series, securing a 1-0 advantage in the best-of-three matchup.

A Golden Boot Performance

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was presented with the Golden Boot after topping the regular-season scoring chart with an impressive 29 goals in just 28 games. Messi wasted no time showcasing his goal-scoring brilliance, opening the scoring in the 19th minute with a diving header off a precise pass from Luis Suarez. The play began when Sergio Busquets gained control near the sideline and found Rodrigo De Paul, who fed the charging Messi. The Argentine superstar then handed off to Suarez on the right before pressing forward to connect when Suarez returned the ball.

Miami’s Dominant Playoff Start

Tadeo Allende extended Inter Miami’s lead in the 62nd minute with a header from an Ian Fray pass, putting the hosts up 2-0. The commanding performance reflected the team’s intensity and tactical discipline throughout the contest. De Paul praised the squad’s execution, stating: “We know that playoffs are tough, so we wanted to start with a win at home. The team did very well today in terms of intensity, focus, understanding the moments when to attack and when to defend.”

Game two of the series is scheduled for November 1 in Nashville, with Inter Miami positioned favorably after their emphatic home victory.