In a highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash in Major League Soccer, Inter Miami were thrashed 4-1 by Nashville SC on Saturday, with Lionel Messi enduring a frustrating evening that included a missed penalty and a yellow card.

The Argentine captain, who assisted Miami's only goal scored by Telasco Segovia, was denied from the spot in the first half by Nashville goalkeeper Brian Schwake, who saved his weak effort. Messi also struck both posts in second-half stoppage time, epitomizing his night of near-misses.

Nashville took the lead in the 17th minute through a header from Honduran defender Andy Najar. Miami equalized just before halftime when Segovia blasted a right-footed shot past the keeper, with Messi providing the assist. However, the hosts regained control after the break with goals from Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar, who scored twice, sealing a comprehensive victory.

The result leaves Nashville atop the MLS standings with 43 points (13 wins, 2 draws, 4 losses), while Inter Miami remain second with 38 points. Nashville had already eliminated Miami from this year's CONCACAF Champions Cup in the round of 16, adding to the significance of this league defeat.

Miami, the defending MLS champions, had boasted the league's best away record (8-1-1) and were on a seven-match unbeaten run in MLS. That streak came to an end as Nashville extended their unbeaten home record this season.

Messi's recent penalty record has been uncharacteristically poor, including two misses at the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. His performance on Saturday will raise further questions about his form from the spot, though he remains a key creative force for the team.

Source: www.aljazeera.com