Inter Miami have emerged winners of the 2023 Leagues Cup after a captivating match against Nashville SC that was eventually settled on penalties.
The win also ensued inspirational leader Lionel Messi claimed his 44th career trophy. He has now become the most successful football player of all-time.
The match started with Nashville looking more destined to take the lead. They consistently pressurized the Inter Miami team with nice attacking displays. However, it was Inter Miami that went ahead in the 23rd minute.
Lionel Messi claimed a loose ball, got past Walker Zimmerman and released a ferocious shot into the top corner. The stadium erupted immediately, Messi who came into the team just two months ago has transformed them magically.
ALSO READ: Lionel Messi scores magnificent injury time winner on Inter Miami debut
With so much persistence, Nashville responded with a goal. Fafa Picault headed in the equaliser, the ball coming off Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender.
In the dying moments of the encounter, Leonardo Campana spurned a a golden opportunity. His last-ditch stretch to net the ball hit the post. The game ended 1-1 as the encounter entered penalty shootout.
A shootout that featured all 11 players on each side finished with both goalkeepers going last. Callender shot his kick into the top while Nashville’s Elliot Panicco saw his effort saved by Callender to hand the title to Miami.
The trophy is Inter Miami’s first. They are also in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals and are in a strong position to win it.
Meanwhile, Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi won both the best player and top scorer awards for the Leagues Cup.
The former Barcelona player played seven games, scored ten goals and assisted once.
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