Match Overview
In a gripping showdown in Nashville, the much-anticipated clash between Inter Miami and Nashville SC concluded without any goals, ending in a 0-0 draw in their first match of the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16. This result means both teams are set to face off again on March 18 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, where the victor will secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
Lionel Messi’s Performance
Lionel Messi, who previously had a remarkable streak of scoring in six consecutive games against Nashville since April 20, 2024, found himself unable to net a goal during the match. In this stretch, Messi had accumulated an impressive 12 goals and five assists. This performance marks the second time in just four games that Messi has been kept off the scoresheet, previously occurring during a 3-0 defeat to Los Angeles FC on February 21.
Despite his individual struggles, Messi managed to take a shot and complete 79% of his passes throughout the match, with his solitary attempt on goal coming in the 55th minute. However, his effort was saved by Nashville’s goalkeeper, Bruan Schwake, leading to one of Messi’s lowest shot outputs in a game since the MLS Cup Eastern Conference final against New York City FC on November 29, where he did not register a shot on target but did contribute with an assist.
Team Statistics
Inter Miami showed dominance in possession, holding the ball for 59% of the match. Yet, Nashville SC was more aggressive in terms of shooting, launching 15 attempts toward goal, four of which were on target. One of Nashville’s best opportunities arose from a corner kick taken by Cristian Espinoza in the 65th minute, where Reed Baker-Whiting’s header sailed just over the goalpost.
Looking Ahead
As the series progresses, the winning team of the Nashville-Miami encounter will face either Club América, who triumphed over the Philadelphia Union 1-0 on Wednesday, or the Union in the quarterfinals. The elimination match for the current round will take place at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Teams advance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup based on aggregate goals over two matches, and if the second match ends in a stalemate, extra time and penalty kicks will determine which side moves forward.
