In a final befitting what has been an exciting and thrilling 2023 Leagues Cup campaign, Inter Miami took down Nashville SC on penalties and captured their first-ever trophy. Lionel Messi won his 44th career trophy, becoming the most successful soccer player of all-time.
Messi kicks things off
The match began with Nashville on the forefoot, putting consistent pressure on Inter Miami, who couldn’t control possession to their liking as a result. But in the 23rd minute, Messi once again showed up and created magic. Messi latched on to a loose ball, evaded Walker Zimmerman and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner of the goal.
Leagues Cup (Final): Goal Messi (0-1) in Nashville SC 0-1 Inter Miami
Nashville strikes back
Nashville would not go away, especially once the second half began. Their persistence paid off with a schoolyard goal off the head of Fafa Picault that pinged off Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender on its way to the back of the net.
Leagues Cup (Final): Own Goal by Drake Callender (1-1) at Nashville SC 1-1 Inter Miami
Last second drama
In a play that has to be seen to be believed, Leonardo Campana was gifted a golden chance to put the game away in the final seconds, but his last-ditch stretch to bury the shot hit the post and brung about a penalty kick shootout to settle the final.
Leonardo Campana hits post in final moments of the match.
Settled on penalties
The shootout featured all 11 players on each side getting an opportunity to make their penalty kicks and ended with both goalkeepers going last. Callender stepped up first and rocketed his effort into the top of the frame. Nashville’s Elliot Panicco saw his effort saved by Callender, coronating Miami as Leagues Cup royalty.
The victory marked Inter’s first trophy, and they have a chance for more soon. They are in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals and will be considered favorites after this impressive Leagues Cup performance.
Read More: World News | Entertainment News | Celeb News
Marca
