After splitting their Eastern Conference Round One Best-of-3 Series, Inter Miami CF hosts Nashville SC in a decisive Game 3 on Saturday during the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. Miami secured a solid 3-1 victory in Game 1, but Nashville bounced back with a 2-1 win in Game 2.
The series now returns to Miami’s home field, with an Eastern Conference Semifinal spot at stake. The winner will face either FC Cincinnati or Columbus Crew in the next round, scheduled for November.
Memories of 2024 linger for Inter Miami. After a record-setting regular season, their playoff ambitions were cut short in Game 3 against Atlanta United. The Herons won the first game at home but lost the next two, ending their playoff run prematurely.
The question now is whether Miami can replicate their dominant Game 1 showing after a sluggish start in Nashville. Another standout performance from captain Lionel Messi might be crucial for the team’s success.
"Miami's captain has 40 goals in 45 matches (all competitions) this year, including three in this series."
In Game 2, Nashville overcame their previous struggles against Miami during the Messi era. Before this victory, Nashville had never beaten Miami in nine attempts, with a record of 0 wins, 7 losses, and 2 draws.
"Nashville got the monkey off their back in Game 2, beating Miami for the first time during the Messi era."
The match promises a thrilling conclusion as both teams battle for a place in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Author’s summary: Inter Miami and Nashville SC face a decisive Game 3 with high stakes, relying on Messi's brilliance and Nashville’s renewed confidence to claim a playoff spot.
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