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Nashville Beats Inter Miami 4-1, Mukhtar Scores Twice

8/16/2026

34 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Messi Penalty Saved

Inter Miami CF lost 4-1 to first-place Nashville SC on Aug. 15.
Lionel Messi started his first game since his father’s death on Aug. 8 and had his 23rd-minute penalty saved by Brian Schwake.
Hany Mukhtar scored twice in the second half, extending Nashville’s lead.
Sam Surridge scored a back-heeled goal in the 62nd minute.
Nashville moved five points ahead in the Eastern Conference with 15 games remaining.

Summary

Messi Tribute

Messi posted a tribute on Aug. 8 2026 after his father Jorge’s death, saying he “doesn’t know what I’ll do without you” and hinting at retirement.
Four days later he entered at halftime of a Nu Stadium match and received a standing ovation.
Manager Guillermo Hoyos asked for silence, tranquility and peace for Messi and urged media to respect his privacy.
Casemiro, Yannick Bright and Angel Di María pledged support, promising private messages.

History

Historical Context

MLS was formed in 1995 after USSF pledged a Division-1 league for the 1994 World Cup and launched in 1996 with ten teams. The league lost about $250 million in its first five years, leading to the 2007 Designated Player rule that brought David Beckham and showed how star signings boost visibility. Inter Miami’s 4-1 loss with Lionel Messi reflects that same dynamic.

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Messi Penalty Saved

Inter Miami CF lost 4-1 to first-place Nashville SC on Aug. 15.
Lionel Messi started his first game since his father’s death on Aug. 8 and had his 23rd-minute penalty saved by Brian Schwake.
Hany Mukhtar scored twice in the second half, extending Nashville’s lead.
Sam Surridge scored a back-heeled goal in the 62nd minute.
Nashville moved five points ahead in the Eastern Conference with 15 games remaining.

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