In a heart-stopping final, Inter Miami clinched the Leagues Cup title by edging out Nashville SC in a nail-biting 10-9 penalty shootout on Saturday. The match had earlier seen the teams deadlocked at 1-1 after full time.
Lionel Messi, who’s been on a hot streak since his debut with the MLS side, showcased his magic in the 23rd minute. The star player fired a thunderous shot from afar, weaving through several defenders, and finding the net’s top left corner. This remarkable goal marked Messi’s 10th in the tournament.
However, Inter Miami’s lead was short-lived. Nashville responded with Fafa Picault equalizing in the 57th minute. As the second half unfolded, both squads displayed commendable grit and determination, creating numerous chances but failing to break the tie.
The evening’s climax arrived during the penalty shootout. The weight of the game rested on Nashville’s goalkeeper, Elliot Panicco. Unfortunately for him and his team, Panicco’s missed shot gifted Inter Miami their inaugural trophy, a significant achievement for a team that joined the league just three years ago.