Messi Scores 19th MLS Goal, But Nashville Denies Inter Miami A Win With Late Equaliser

Lionel Messi struck his 19th MLS goal of the season, but Inter Miami were denied a crucial victory as league leaders Nashville SC fought back for a 2-2 draw in a dramatic finish.

Miami looked set to finally get the better of Nashville this season when Messi put the hosts ahead in the 62nd minute. However, Nashville refused to surrender and found an equaliser deep into stoppage time to preserve its unbeaten record against Miami in four meetings this season.

Nashville made a fast start, taking the lead just four minutes into the match. Sam Surridge finished a pass from Andy Najar to score his 14th goal of the season and put the visitors in front.

Miami responded in the 19th minute when Nashville defender Reed Baker-Whiting inadvertently turned the ball into his own net from a corner, bringing the contest level.

Messi came close to putting Miami ahead before halftime. His effort from outside the penalty area was blocked in the 27th minute, while a free kick shortly afterwards went wide.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner eventually found the breakthrough after the interval. Rodrigo De Paul picked out Messi outside the penalty area, and the Argentine produced a composed left-footed finish into the bottom-left corner to make it 2-1.

But Miami could not hold on. Just a minute into stoppage time, Surridge scored his second goal of the night, rescuing a point for Nashville.

The result keeps Nashville nine points clear of second-place Miami in the Eastern Conference and extends its unbeaten run against the Florida side.

The draw will be particularly frustrating for Miami, who were seeking revenge after a 4-1 defeat to Nashville on August 15. Nashville had also knocked Miami out of the Concacaf Champions Cup earlier this season.