Messi Masterpiece Not Enough for Inter Miami, Son Shines in MLS

MLS Playoff Drama: Messi’s Magic Falls Short, Son Shines Bright

The MLS playoffs continue to deliver breathtaking moments as two global superstars Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min showcase their incredible talents on American soil, though with dramatically different outcomes for their respective teams.

Messi’s Masterpiece Can’t Save Inter Miami in Nashville Defeat

Inter Miami suffered a crucial 2-1 away defeat against Nashville SC, despite another moment of magic from Lionel Messi. The loss sets up a decisive winner-takes-all match back in Miami that will determine who advances to the semifinals.

The match started poorly for Miami when forward Sam Surridge converted a penalty in the 9th minute after goalkeeper Rocco Rios was judged to have fouled him. Nashville doubled their lead just before halftime through defender Josh Bauer.

Inter Miami pushed aggressively in the second half but struggled to break through until the 89th minute, when Messi produced his trademark brilliance – curling a stunning shot from just outside the penalty area into the top corner. However, the late masterpiece proved insufficient as Nashville held on for the 2-1 victory.

Messi’s Incredible MLS Form Continues

The Argentine legend has now scored in four consecutive matches, beginning with a brace against Atlanta, followed by a hat-trick against Nashville in the regular season, another brace in their previous playoff encounter, and now this spectacular goal.

Most remarkably, the 38-year-old has compiled 32 goals and 16 assists in just 30 MLS matches this season including playoffs – numbers that defy both age and expectations.

Son Heung-min Dominates as LAFC Crushes Austin

While Messi struggled to carry his team to victory, Son Heung-min continued his own MLS domination, contributing a goal and an assist in LAFC’s comprehensive 4-1 victory over Austin FC.

The Korean superstar opened the scoring in the 21st minute, cutting in from the left and firing into the far corner. Just three minutes later, he provided the assist for midfielder Denis Bouanga, effectively sealing the match early. Son played until the 88th minute, ensuring LAFC’s advancement to the next round.

Son’s Stunning MLS Statistics

The 33-year-old has compiled 10 goals and 3 assists in just 12 MLS appearances. His September form was particularly devastating, scoring in four consecutive matches including a hat-trick against Real Salt Lake. After a brief scoring pause against Atlanta, he’s returned to his unstoppable best.

Adding to his growing MLS legacy, Son’s goal against Dallas was recently voted as the Best Goal of the 2025 MLS Regular Season – further cementing his impact on the league.

Rumors suggest the Korean international’s contract contains a special clause allowing a loan move during the second half of the season – potentially to prepare for the 2026 World Cup – though this remains unconfirmed.

MLS Playoff Format Explained

The MLS playoff system differs significantly from traditional soccer formats. The first round follows North American sports league principles with a best-of-three series rather than aggregate scoring. Goal difference carries no weight – only victories matter. If matches end level, they proceed directly to penalty shootouts.

The next match returns to Miami as the decisive encounter, with no margin for error remaining. Subsequent rounds will also be determined by single matches rather than series.

Next Up: LAFC faces Vancouver Whitecaps in the quarterfinals, featuring the intriguing matchup between Son Heung-min and German legend Thomas Müller.