Inter Miami kicked off the MLS Cup Playoffs with a commanding 3-1 win against Nashville SC, highlighted by an extraordinary diving header from Lionel Messi. Messi, the Argentine superstar, has tallied 891 goals in his illustrious career, but this was only his 29th goal scored with a header.

After weathering an early offensive onslaught from Nashville, Messi received a well-placed pass from Luis Suarez, executing an acrobatic header that beat goalkeeper Joe Willis, giving Miami the lead. Despite a dip in scoring form last season, Suarez’s ability to assist remains pivotal for Miami’s attacking strategies.

Here’s the goal:

Messi magic in Game One! 💥
What a start for @InterMiamiCF. // Audi MLS Cup Playoffs pic.twitter.com/6ugOORVHGT
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 25, 2025

With Messi’s goal propelling them to a halftime lead, Inter Miami is now just 45 minutes away from advancing in this best-of-three playoff series. Tadeo Allende later sealed the win with a goal assisted by Messi, who also added another to his tally in stoppage time.

The second game will be hosted in Nashville on Saturday, November 1. The first team to secure two victories in the series will move on to the next round, while Miami’s past victory against Nashville makes them the favorites. Nashville now faces elimination after losing three consecutive matches.

As Miami aims for a stronger season following their exit in the first round last year, Messi’s performance remains crucial as he chases a likely MVP award with 39 goals across competitions this season.