Messi is soaring! A 'cinematic perfection' header goal in the MLS

Lionel Messi once again dazzled supporters with a beautiful airborne header, significantly contributing to Inter Miami's 3-1 win against Nashville in the 2025 MLS playoff round.

On the morning of October 25 (Vietnam time), Inter Miami began the MLS knockout stage with an impressive 3-1 home win over Nashville . As usual, Lionel Messi was the center of attention, not only because of his influence but also due to a truly “cinematic” moment in the 19th minute.

The play started from a familiar move: Messi escaped pressure in the midfield, passed out to Luis Suárez on the wing, then immediately rushed into the penalty area. From his close friend’s perfectly placed cross, El Pulga launched a precise flying header, sending the ball into the far corner, leaving Nashville’s goalkeeper powerless to react. That leap, with perfect form and absolute accuracy, set the stadium alight.

That opening goal was the catalyst for Inter Miami’s dominant performance throughout the rest of the match. The pink-clad team controlled the game completely, executing a smooth style centered around Messi’s creativity. In the second half, Tadeo Allende doubled the lead with a close-range finish. At the 90+6 minute mark, Messi shone again with a cold-blooded strike, completing his brace and sealing an outstanding performance. Nashville’s consolation goal by Hany Mukhtar in the 90+12 minute was merely a token.

According to Sofascore, Messi earned an 8.8 rating (the highest in the match). He took 4 shots, 2 on target, both resulting in goals, surpassing expected metrics (xG 1.28, xGOT 1.78). Beyond finishing, Messi frequently dropped deep to orchestrate play, create space, and link midfield with attack, demonstrating his comprehensive influence. Even at 38 years old, Inter Miami’s number 10 remains the soul of the team, leading and deciding matches with timeless class.

With the 3-1 victory, Inter Miami has nearly secured a spot in the MLS Cup quarterfinals. The rematch between the two teams will take place at 6:30 AM on November 2 (Vietnam time), where Messi and his teammates promise to continue their dream journey in the U.S.

Related Articles

Messi reveals why Ronaldo is the 'GOAT' Lionel Messi disclosed the sole reason Cristiano Ronaldo is regarded as the “GOAT” (greatest of all time), as a former Manchester United teammate admitted that CR7 “didn’t even know how to head the ball” when he first arrived at Old Trafford. See more