Lionel Messi is a hard man to keep out of action in any match, especially in a match when his team needs him the most. The Argentine showcased this talent once again as Inter Miami secured a 2-2 draw against Nashville in the CONCACAF Champions League on March 8 (Friday).
Inter Miami found themselves in a precarious situation right from the start, with Nashville’s Jacob Shaffelburg finding the back of the net just four minutes into the game, it was Lionel Messi who once again revitalised the contest for the Florida-based team.
Inter Miami found themselves trailing by two goals in the first away leg of the Round of 16 clash against Nashville FC, courtesy of a brace by forward Shaffleburg at 4th and 46th minutes, respectively. However, it was none other than Lionel Messi who rose to the occasion, scoring a magnificent finesse goal from outside the box, skillfully manoeuvring through Nashville defenders attempting to contain the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Watch The Lionel Messi Goal Here:
Inter Miami then managed to secure a draw, salvaging the game with a 97th-minute equaliser by Luis Suarez, as he found the back of the net with a sharp header.
Here's The Luis Suarez Equaliser:
With the upcoming home leg at the DRV PNK Stadium on March 14, Inter Miami are now considered favourites to progress to the next round.
Notably, Messi encountered a couple of missed opportunities in the first half of the Nashville vs Inter Miami, notably a misplayed shot in the 37th minute and a free kick from just outside the box that struck the Nashville SC wall during first-half stoppage time. However, following a second Jacob Shaffelburg goal for Nashville early in the second half, Messi began to assert his influence on the game.
Nashville SC and Inter Miami are set to face each other in the second leg of the Round of 16 Champions Cup tie on March 13 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.