Messi Nets Brace & Free-Kick as Inter Miami Beats Nashville

 

Messi Makes History: Brace vs Nashville Sets MLS Multi-Goal Record

Updated: July 13, 2025 |

Lionel Messi has done it again. On July 13, 2025, in front of a packed stadium at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Messi delivered another masterclass in football. With two magnificent goals — one from a stunning free kick and another following a goalkeeper error — Messi not only secured a 2–1 victory for Inter Miami over Nashville SC but also etched his name deeper into Major League Soccer (MLS) history books.

This performance marked the fifth consecutive match in which Messi scored two or more goals, making him the first player in MLS history to achieve that feat. His brilliance on the field continues to captivate fans and critics alike, reinforcing the idea that even at 38, the Argentine maestro is far from finished.

⚽ The Match Overview – Inter Miami vs Nashville SC

The stakes were high coming into this game. Nashville SC entered the fixture unbeaten in their last 15 games. Inter Miami, however, had momentum on their side, largely thanks to Lionel Messi's phenomenal form. With Messi and former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez starting up front, the home side looked dangerous from the kickoff.

It didn’t take long for Messi to leave his mark. In the 17th minute, after earning a free kick on the edge of the box, he curled the ball with surgical precision into the top right corner. The crowd erupted. It was a moment of déjà vu — reminiscent of his countless free-kick goals in Europe, now replicated regularly in MLS.

In the 62nd minute, Messi struck again. A loose clearance from Nashville’s goalkeeper fell right at his feet. With characteristic calmness, Messi slotted it past the defense into the back of the net. It was his 14th and 15th goal of the season — and another record-breaking moment for the living legend.

📊 Messi’s MLS Record – Five Straight Braces

Here is a quick breakdown of Messi’s last five performances in MLS:

• 🆚 New York Red Bulls – 2 Goals
• 🆚 Chicago Fire – 3 Goals (Hat-trick)
• 🆚 LA Galaxy – 2 Goals
• 🆚 Austin FC – 2 Goals
• 🆚 Nashville SC – 2 Goals

That’s a total of 11 goals in 5 games — all scored in pairs or more. No other player in MLS history has managed this level of consistent goal-scoring over consecutive matches. His clinical finishing, game intelligence, and fitness have kept him at the top, despite his age and intense schedule.

🎯 Goal 1: The Free Kick Specialist

The 17th-minute free kick goal was classic Messi. With the wall set and Nashville’s defenders tense, Messi approached the ball and struck it with that signature left-footed finesse. The curve, dip, and placement were perfection — the ball floated just over the wall and nestled in the corner of the net.

It was his third free-kick goal this season and his seventh in MLS overall. No player in the league currently has more direct free-kick goals than Messi in 2025.

🥅 Goal 2: Capitalizing on Mistakes

In the 62nd minute, Nashville’s goalkeeper attempted to clear a back pass under pressure. Messi, lurking just outside the box, intercepted it and made no mistake. He calmly placed the ball into the net, extending Miami’s lead and completing his brace. His positional awareness and anticipation once again proved world-class.

🗣️ Reactions from Fans & Pundits

“This man’s consistency at 38 is mind-blowing. He’s not just playing — he’s rewriting MLS history.” – ESPN FC

Social media exploded after the match. The hashtags #MessiMagic, #InterMiami, and #MLS2025 trended globally. Fans shared memes, reaction videos, and tributes to the GOAT, while players and analysts praised his unmatched form.

📈 Messi’s 2025 MLS Stats (So Far)

• Appearances: 14
• Goals: 18
• Assists: 9
• Braces: 6
• Hat-tricks: 1
• Free-Kick Goals: 3

These numbers place Messi at the top of both the Golden Boot and MVP race this season. His partnership with Suárez and Alba has revived Inter Miami’s title hopes, with the team currently sitting third in the Eastern Conference.

🏟️ Match Summary

Team	Goals	Goal Scorers
Inter Miami	2	Messi (17', 62')
Nashville SC	1	Mukhtar (78')

🌍 Global Impact of Messi’s MLS Journey

Messi’s presence in the United States continues to elevate the profile of MLS. With record viewership, sold-out stadiums, and a spike in jersey sales, his impact off the pitch is as significant as his dominance on it.

Broadcast deals have expanded globally, social media followers have surged, and young American fans now get to witness a living legend week after week. It’s safe to say that Messi is not just boosting Inter Miami — he’s transforming U.S. football culture.

📅 What’s Next for Inter Miami?

Inter Miami’s next match is against Atlanta United on July 17, 2025. With Messi in this kind of form, fans are already anticipating another goal-fest. The team’s chemistry looks solid, and their playoff position is strengthening week by week.

Coach Tata Martino confirmed in the post-match interview that Messi is “feeling sharp, training hard, and eager to compete in every game.” He also hinted that squad rotation may begin soon to keep the stars fresh for the Leagues Cup.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s brace against Nashville was not just another performance — it was a historical moment. Setting an MLS record for five consecutive multi-goal games, he proved again why he is considered the greatest of all time. Whether it's bending free kicks or capitalizing on pressure situations, Messi continues to amaze.

As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on him. If you’re a fan of football, now is the time to witness greatness — live and every week, right here in Major League Soccer.