Nashville Defeats Inter Miami 2-1, Forces MLS Playoff Game 3

Nashville SC beat Inter Miami 2-1 in Game 2 of their first-round MLS Cup series, forcing a decisive Game 3 in Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 8. Sam Surridge converted a ninth-minute penalty and Josh Bauer scored just before halftime, while Lionel Messi’s late strike in the 89th minute proved insufficient. The match drew controversy over officiating and VAR limitations, with the New York Times reporting camera-angle gaps that prevented overturning a disputed call. Miami, which won Game 1 and entered the series as favorites after high-profile signings, now faces elimination and renewed concern after last year’s opening-round exit. MLS analysts have also been discussing Messi’s new contract and what his future at Inter Miami could mean for the club.