Messi’s Fifth Straight Brace Lifts Inter Miami Past Nashville SC

Lionel Messi continued his scorching run of form on Saturday night, scoring twice to lead Inter Miami to a 2–1 victory over Nashville SC in Fort Lauderdale. With the win, Miami extended its MLS win streak to five matches, while Messi etched his name even deeper into league history with a fifth consecutive multigoal performance—a record unmatched in MLS history.
After an even start to the match, the Argentine icon delivered a moment of brilliance in the 17th minute, bending a low free kick around the wall and past Nashville goalkeeper Joe Willis. The goal, Messi’s 69th from a direct free kick in his illustrious career, gave him goals in six straight league matches and showcased yet again why he remains the heartbeat of the Miami attack.
Nashville responded early in the second half through 2022 MLS MVP Hany Mukhtar, who headed home a pinpoint cross from Andy Najar to draw the match level. But it wouldn’t stay tied for long.
In the 62nd minute, Messi pounced on a careless pass from Willis, smoothly rounded the keeper, and slotted in his second of the night to restore Miami’s lead. It was his 16th goal of the season in as many games, tying him atop the MLS scoring charts with Nashville’s Sam Surridge.
“There’s not much left to say,” said Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano. “What Leo is doing—breaking records every few days—is incredible. He’s our leader, our example, and the reason we are where we are.”
The win not only snapped Nashville’s 12-match unbeaten run—the longest active streak in MLS—but also pushed Miami to fifth in the Supporters’ Shield standings, with three games in hand due to their Club World Cup participation. It was a statement win between two of the league’s most in-form teams, played in front of a raucous Chase Stadium crowd that has come to expect brilliance from Messi every time he steps onto the pitch.
With a busy July schedule ahead, including a crucial matchup against FC Cincinnati on July 16, Miami’s sights are set on climbing further in the standings—and with Messi leading the charge, anything seems possible.

Check out LifeWalletSports.com to get connected with all of our NIL athletes and partnered brands