Inter Miami CF and Nashville SC face off in a decisive Game 3 on Saturday as part of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One series. After splitting the first two games, both teams now compete for a place in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Miami claimed a strong 3-1 home victory in Game 1, but Nashville responded with a 2-1 win at home in Game 2. The series now returns to Miami, where the deciding match will determine who advances to face either FC Cincinnati or Columbus Crew later this month.
If Game 3 ends in a draw after the regular 90 minutes, no extra time will be played. Instead, a penalty shootout will settle the outcome and decide which team advances.
Miami supporters may recall a sense of déjà vu. In 2024, after an outstanding regular season, the team was eliminated in Game 3 of Round One by Atlanta United following a similar pattern of winning the opener before losing the next two matches.
“The question arises after a dominant Game 1 performance gave way to a slow start in Nashville, and now Miami's playoff fate is on the line.”
Lionel Messi continues to lead Miami’s charge, scoring 40 goals in 45 matches across all competitions this year, including three in this playoff series. Another stellar display from the team captain could prove vital in Game 3.
For Nashville, their Game 2 win was particularly meaningful — it marked their first triumph over Miami in the Messi era after nine previous matches without a victory (0 wins, 7 losses, 2 draws), including the Leagues Cup 2023 final.
Miami and Nashville meet for a winner-takes-all clash that defines their playoff destiny, with Messi’s performance and Nashville’s newfound belief adding extra intrigue to the showdown.