In an intriguing twist of fate, Nashville SC and Inter Miami have found themselves intertwined in a compelling rivalry since both clubs joined Major League Soccer (MLS) as expansion teams in 2020. While each team has carved out its own unique identity and path—Miami often adorned with glamour and star power, particularly in the wake of Lionel Messi’s arrival, and Nashville embracing a more understated, defensive approach—success has marked both teams’ journeys in the league thus far.
Throughout their brief history, these two teams have faced off in significant matches, with each encounter heightening the intensity of their rivalry. The inaugural playoff showdown in 2020 saw Nashville clinch a win, while in 2023, they battled again in the U.S. Open Cup, where Miami emerged victorious. The stakes reached a thrilling peak during the Leagues Cup final in 2023, where Miami triumphed in a penalty shootout, marking a momentous occasion as Messi secured his first trophy with the club just a month after his debut. This past year also saw Miami defeat Nashville in the Concacaf Champions Cup, further stoking the competitive flame between them.
As they prepare for yet another crucial playoff match this Saturday, both teams are well aware of the high stakes involved. Nashville is eager to extend its season by overcoming Miami, a team laden with the league’s most expensive roster, and avoid a repeat of past playoff disappointments. Midfielder Alex Muyl reflected on the nature of their meetings, noting that the rivalry deepens with each high-stakes match, creating an almost fated narrative between the clubs.
Despite Inter Miami’s early victory in their playoff matchup, Nashville showed resilience, bouncing back in Game 2 and establishing dominance. The coming match is particularly notable as it marks the fourth consecutive encounter between the two teams, a rarity in MLS history. Nashville defender Jack Maher highlighted the familiarity that this repetition fosters, making match preparation a streamlined process as they know their opponents inside and out.
Although Nashville maintains a focused approach toward their own game, they are keenly aware of the implications for Miami, especially concerning Messi’s quest for trophies. The Argentine superstar, renowned for his prolific winning record throughout his career, faces the reality of potentially concluding the season without a trophy, a daunting prospect for someone so accustomed to success.
In Nashville’s locker room, there is a collective indifference to the media spotlight on Messi and Miami. The team embraces its underdog status, channeling a gritty ethos while enjoying a record-breaking offensive season led by standout players Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar. Maher emphasized the club’s vision for sustained success, expressing a desire to build on their recent triumph in the U.S. Open Cup, which marked the first trophy in Nashville’s history.
As the team shifts its focus back to the pitch, the spirit of determination is palpable. The players remain acutely aware of the moment, eager to celebrate another potential trophy at the end of the year, driven by a commitment to their journey and aspirations for continued greatness. Their eyes are firmly set on the horizon, hoping for one more memorable moment in the 2025 season.