Inter Miami, with the help of star player Lionel Messi, defeated Nashville SC on penalties in the 2023 Leagues Cup final, winning their first-ever trophy as a club in the United States. Continue reading
Nashville started the game on the front foot, applying constant pressure on Inter Miami, who struggled to maintain favourable possession control. But Messi worked his magic once more in the 23rd minute. After grabbing hold of a loose ball and dodging Walker Zimmerman, Messi fired an unstoppable blast into the top right corner of the net.
As the second half got underway, Nashville began to exert greater pressure. Their perseverance paid off as Fafa Picault's schoolyard goal bounced off Miami defender Drake Callender and into the back of the net.
In the last seconds, Leonardo Campana was given a fantastic opportunity to win the match, but his last-ditch effort to score struck the post. A penalty shootout was the only option left for both teams.
Both goalkeepers went last in the penalty shootout, which had all 11 players on each team having a chance to make their kicks. The first person to move up launched Callender's effort into the top of the frame. Elliot Panicco of Nashville had his attempt saved by Callender, making Miami the Leagues Cup champions.
Following the title presentation, Inter Miami co-owner and David Beckham, who couldn't contain his joy, raced to give Messi a hug.
#Messi𓃵
— Franklin Ọnwụanakụ (@FranklinOnwuan1) August 20, 2023
He is him pic.twitter.com/Yq1mr7O8AY
Leo Messi gives Yedlin the armband and asks him to lift the trophy with him!
— 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 (@SRKsSteven) August 20, 2023
Just shows why Leo Messi is the most humble person in the world!#Messi𓃵 #InterMiamiCFpic.twitter.com/7axUXDVMlH