Right from the start of the match, Nashville entered the match with great determination. In the 9th minute, Sam Surridge was fouled by Rocco Rios Novo goalkeeper in the penalty area and he himself successfully converted the penalty kick, opening the score 1-0 for the home team.
Before the end of the first half, Josh Bauer doubled the gap with a close-range finish after a chaotic shot from a corner kick, giving Nashville a temporary 2-0 lead after the first 45 minutes.
In the second half, Inter Miami focused all their efforts on attacking with the duo Messi - Suarez continuously causing a stir. In the 66th minute, Luis Suarez had a chance to reduce the score but could not beat goalkeeper Joe Willis. Meanwhile, Messi had two dangerous shots that were blocked in the 79th and 86th minutes.
It was not until the 89th minute that the Argentine superstar made his mark with a shot from his left foot that sent the ball into the top corner, narrowing the gap to 1-2 for Inter Miami. However, the efforts in the extra minutes were not enough to help the away team turn the situation around.
This defeat left Inter Miami at a disadvantage before the return home match. However, Messi's goal was still a rare bright spot, showing his great influence in the playing style of the Florida team.
Coach Tata Martino and Inter Miami need to improve their pressing ability and take advantage of better opportunities in the rematch on November 9 (Vietnam time).
