Messi Magic: Golden Boot Winner Scores Twice in Miami’s Playoff Victory

Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance in Inter Miami’s playoff opener against Nashville SC, scoring a brace and assisting another goal just hours after receiving the MLS Golden Boot for his 29-goal season. The match, held at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, saw Miami dominate with a 3-1 victory, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series. Messi’s first goal came via a diving header in the 19th minute, followed by a second-half strike that sealed the win. Tadeo Allende also contributed with a first-half goal.

Notable updates

• Messi received the 2025 MLS Golden Boot for scoring 29 goals in 28 games  
• He added 1 assist and 2 goals in the playoff opener against Nashville SC  
• Inter Miami now leads the best-of-three Round 1 series 1-0  
• Coach Javier Mascherano praised the team’s collective effort and Messi’s leadership  
• Game 2 will be held in Nashville on November 1

Sources: ESPN, WION, Times of India, MLS Soccer, Sports Mole.