Nashville SC beats Inter Miami, Messi, 4-1 as Hany Mukhtar scores 2 in the second half

Nashville SC triumphed over Inter Miami with a scoreline of 4-1, as Hany Mukhtar netted two goals in the second half during the match on Saturday night. The Eastern Conference's top two teams showcased their prowess, allowing Nashville SC to stay atop the MLS standings.

Mukhtar scored his first goal in the 48th minute off a pass from Saad, followed by Sam Surridge's goal eight minutes later. Andy Najar opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a header. Messi, Inter Miami's captain, made his return to action after the loss of his father Jorge, who passed away on August 8 at the age of 68. Although he started the second half, Messi missed a crucial penalty kick in the 23rd minute, which was saved by Nashville goalkeeper Brian Schwake.

The rebound was converted by Sergio Reguilón, though it was ruled out for early entry into the penalty area. Inter Miami leveled the score in the 48th minute through Telasco Segovia's spin-move goal. In the 62nd minute, Rocco Rios-Novo's mistake allowed Mukhtar to score the fourth goal, extending Nashville's lead to 4-1. This victory marked Nashville's second win against Inter Miami since Messi's arrival, as they will face Red Bull New York on Wednesday, while Inter Miami will take on the Philadelphia Union on the same day.