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Inter Miami is the Leagues Cup champion, and Messi secures his first title in the United States

By Arthur Fernandes

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 19: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal in the 23rd minute against the Nashville SC during first half in the Leagues Cup 2023 final match between Inter Miami CF and Nashville SC at GEODIS Park on August 19, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 19: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal in the 23rd minute against the Nashville SC during first half in the Leagues Cup 2023 final match between Inter Miami CF and Nashville SC at GEODIS Park on August 19, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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Inter Miami scripted a memorable chapter in its history by clinching the 2023 Leagues Cup after an exciting penalty shootout against Nashville SC. It was a final filled with twists and thrilling moments that had soccer fans on the edge of their seats.

The game began with Inter Miami showcasing its characteristic ball possession and patience in passing. However, Nashville SC wasted no time in threatening, with Moore taking a shot from outside the box but missing the target. Inter Miami, on the other hand, saw its first significant opportunity at the 17th minute when Zimmerman rose for a header, but Callender made the save.

But it was Lionel Messi who stole the spotlight at the 23rd minute with a spectacular goal. He controlled the ball at the edge of the box, dribbled past Zimmerman, and struck a perfect shot into the top corner of Panicco’s net, opening the scoring for Inter Miami. It was a breathtaking goal that highlighted Messi’s unparalleled talent.

Inter Miami’s Argentine forward #10 Lionel Messi kicks to score during a penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup final football match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami in at Geodis Park in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 19, 2023. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP) (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)
Inter Miami’s Argentine forward #10 Lionel Messi kicks to score during a penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup final football match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami in at Geodis Park in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 19, 2023. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP) (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images) /

The first half ended with Inter Miami having more ball possession, but Nashville showed they were far from giving up. The equalizer came at the 56th minute when Picault headed in a corner, leveling the score.

The second half was thrilling, with chances for both sides. Messi hit the crossbar at a crucial moment, while Mukhtar was dangerous for Nashville, requiring excellent saves from Callender.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to the decision being settled in a penalty shootout. Messi, Inter Miami’s star, was the first to step up and converted expertly. The penalties were thrilling, with notable moments including Callender’s save on Randall Leal’s penalty and Panicco’s save on a shot from Ulloa.

In the end, Inter Miami emerged victorious in a 10-9 penalty shootout, securing the 2023 Leagues Cup title. It was Messi’s first title in the United States, achieved in less than a month since joining the club.

This epic final will certainly be remembered as one of soccer’s most exciting moments and a milestone in Inter Miami’s history. Messi once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time, shining in the decisive moments.

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