Nashville SC pulled off a stunning upset over Inter Miami in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16, winning 2-1 at Geodis Park on Thursday night. Despite Lionel Messi’s brilliant goal in the second half, the hosts held on to their lead thanks to Jacob Shaffelburg’s brace in the first half.
Shaffelburg shines for Nashville SC
The Canadian winger was the star of the show for Nashville SC, scoring two goals in the span of four minutes to give his team a 2-0 lead before halftime. His first goal came in the 36th minute, when he latched onto a long ball from Dax McCarty and slotted it past Nick Marsman. His second goal was even better, as he unleashed a ferocious strike from outside the box that left Marsman with no chance.
Shaffelburg’s performance was a welcome boost for Nashville SC, who were missing their star playmaker Hany Mukhtar due to a hip injury. The 22-year-old showed his pace, skill and finishing ability, and gave Inter Miami’s defense a torrid time throughout the game.
Messi scores a stunner but can’t prevent defeat
Inter Miami’s hopes of a comeback were ignited by Messi’s sublime goal in the 52nd minute, which reduced the deficit to 2-1. The Argentine maestro received a pass from Luis Suarez, and curled a low shot from 25 yards out that nestled into the bottom corner of the net. It was Messi’s first goal in the Champions Cup, and his seventh of the season in all competitions.
However, Messi’s magic was not enough to inspire Inter Miami to a draw, as Nashville SC defended resolutely and denied them any clear chances. Inter Miami’s frustration boiled over in stoppage time, when Suarez was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Walker Zimmerman. The Uruguayan striker will miss the second leg, adding to Inter Miami’s woes.
Nashville SC make history with first Champions Cup win
The victory was Nashville SC’s first ever in the Champions Cup, and their first over Inter Miami in four meetings. The MLS newcomers had lost to Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final last year, which gave Inter Miami a bye to the Champions Cup Round of 16. Nashville SC had to go through a preliminary round, where they thrashed Dominican side Moca FC 8-0 on aggregate.
Nashville SC’s coach Gary Smith praised his team’s performance and said they deserved to win. He also credited Shaffelburg for his outstanding display, and said he hoped Mukhtar would be fit for the second leg. Smith said his team would not be complacent, and would try to finish the job in Miami.
Inter Miami’s coach Tata Martino was disappointed with the result and said his team made too many mistakes. He also lamented the absence of Federico Redondo, who had visa issues and could not join the team in time. Martino said his team would have to improve a lot in the second leg, and hoped Messi and Suarez would be available.
What’s next for both teams?
The second leg of the Champions Cup Round of 16 will take place on March 15 at Inter Miami Stadium. Inter Miami will need to score at least two goals and prevent Nashville SC from scoring to advance to the quarterfinals. Nashville SC will try to hold on to their advantage and reach the last eight for the first time.
Before that, both teams will resume their MLS campaigns this weekend. Inter Miami will host New York City FC on Saturday, while Nashville SC will visit Orlando City SC on Sunday.
