Luis Suárez and Lionel Messi played pivotal roles as Inter Miami fought back to secure a 2-2 draw against Nashville in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Thursday night.
Suarez dramatically leveled the score in stoppage time with a header, connecting with a cross from former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets. Messi ignited Inter Miami’s comeback with his first CONCACAF goal in the 52nd minute.
Nashville had taken an early lead, with Jacob Shaffelburg finding the net in the fourth minute and doubling their advantage in the 47th minute after halftime.
However, their joy was short-lived as a goal by Shaq Moore in the 83rd minute was disallowed for offside.
All eyes were on Messi throughout the match. Ticket prices initially surged in anticipation of his presence, reminiscent of his debut in Nashville last August during the League’s Cup final.
While pink Messi jerseys were visible in the crowd, tickets remained available on matchday. Despite this, fans fervently chanted the name of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner throughout the game. Messi’s impact was keenly awaited, given his history of scoring crucial goals in previous encounters between the two sides.
