Shining Messi: Lionel Messi has won his first title since transferring to the United States, as Inter Miami defeated Nashville SC in the Leagues Cup final. The game, which took place at GEODIS Park in Nashville, Tennessee, was a nail-biter that ended in a 1-1 deadlock after normal time and had to be settled on penalties.
Lionel Messi scored the game’s first goal in the 23rd minute. The Argentine superstar, who had only recently joined Inter Miami, showed off his remarkable talents by latching onto a blocked effort at the top of the box, dancing past two Nashville players, and curling a shot into the top corner. Messi now has eleven goals in the tournament.
Nashville SC would then boost the ante, particularly in the second half, with attacks inside the Miami box. Their perseverance was ultimately rewarded when Fafa Picault scored from a corner kick in the 57th minute to restore parity. The ball rebounded just before Picault, who headed it towards the goal, deflecting off Cremaschi and passing Inter Miami custodian Callender.
The penalty shootout was tense, with both teams demonstrating exceptional skill and poise. However, Callender was the star of the show, save penalties from Landal Leal and Nashville custodian Eliott Panicco while also scoring in the shootout.
Inter Miami won on penalties, 10-9, to claim their first championship in club history.
Also read: Messi, Haaland, and De Bruyne nominated for the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award in 2022–23
