Inter Miami won its first trophy in club history with a Leagues Cup victory over Nashville SC.
The match came a month after the South Florida side kicked off their campaign against Cruz Azul on July 21st. Inter Miami was riding high off the back of a 4-1 semi-final win against the Philadelphia Union when they traveled to Nashville for the final.
Head coach Tata Martino lined Miami up in a 4-3-3, a formation he used throughout the tournament. This setup got the best out of the personnel on the team’s roster.
The early parts of the match started out difficult for Miami. The Herons controlled most of the possession while Nashville sat in a low block, trying to stymie their attack.
It wasn’t until the 23rd minute that Messi released his magic.
The 36-year-old unleashed a wonder strike that flew past the goalkeeper to put Miami up 1-0 early.
Nashville would eventually get one back through Fafa Picult in the 57th minute.
The match was tight and would ultimately go on to penalties, where Inter Miami would show its resolve.
Messi leads the way for Inter Miami
Inter Miami would go on to win the match on penalties thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Drake Callender.
Thanks to Messi and his leadership, Miami was able to win silverware in a tough environment like GEODIS Park in Nashville, Tennessee.
As 2024 approaches, the Herons will look to win more trophies.
Sporting Director Chris Henderson stated that the organization is already laying the groundwork for a successful 2024: “In 2024 we have high hopes and we will compete in multiple competitions. We will work tirelessly to evaluate the changes that need to be made and achieve our goals in bringing success to our fans and Inter Miami.”
If Miami wants to recreate more moments like the Leagues Cup final, then revamping the roster is a must.