Lionel Messi has scored a brace in four consecutive MLS matches, leading Inter Miami to victories against Montreal (4-2 and 4-1), Columbus Crew (5-1), and New England Revolution (2-1). With another two goals against Nashville, the 38-year-old forward now has 10 goals in just over a month, including six in the past week.

Messi celebrates a goal during Inter Miami's 2-1 win over Nashville in round 22 of MLS at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA, on the morning of 13/7. Photo: Inter Miami

Nashville, currently second in the overall MLS standings and seven places above Inter Miami, started strongly. From the opening whistle, they applied pressure in midfield, controlled possession, and forced Messi and his teammates into a tough battle. Despite the challenging circumstances, Messi's brilliance shone through as he gave his team the lead in the 17th minute. The Argentinian forward earned a free-kick and then curled a low shot past the wall into the right corner of the net.

Stunned by the unexpected goal, Nashville intensified their attack. The ball remained predominantly in Inter Miami's half, but the visitors struggled to create clear-cut chances.

After the break, Nashville's persistent attacking efforts finally paid off. In the 49th minute, Andy Najar's cross found Hany Mukhtar, who headed the ball in to equalize, making it 1-1.

Conceding the equalizer prompted a shift in Inter Miami's approach. Messi and his teammates increased their intensity in challenges, maintained better possession, and launched more frequent attacks. Their possession percentage rose from 46% to 53%.

Fortune favored Inter Miami in the 63rd minute. Goalkeeper Joe Willis parried Luis Suarez's weak long-range shot with his chest and attempted a pass to a teammate, only for Messi to intercept. The 38-year-old then dribbled past Willis to secure the 2-1 victory.

The win against Nashville propels Inter Miami to fifth place in the standings with 38 points from 19 games. The reigning Supporters' Shield champions are four points behind leaders FC Cincinnati, having played two fewer matches.

Thanh Quy