Lionel Messi was the star of the show as Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over Nashville in Major League Soccer's Eastern Conference clash on Saturday. Messi, who scored twice and provided an assist for Sergio Busquets, orchestrated Miami's comeback after an early setback.

Miami suffered an unfortunate start when defender Franco Negri inadvertently deflected a corner into his own net just two minutes into the game. However, Messi quickly restored balance, scoring the equalizer in the 11th minute after Luis Suarez's assist.

Continuing his influential performance, Messi set up Busquets for Miami's second goal with a well-delivered corner six minutes before halftime. Despite losing Diego Gomez to injury just before the break, Miami's momentum continued into the second half.

Nashville tried to regain control in the second half but struggled to convert possession into clear chances. Miami put the game beyond doubt with Messi securing his brace from the penalty spot in the 81st minute after Leonardo Afonso was fouled in the box.

Manager Gerardo Martino was critical of his team's slow start but acknowledged their resilience given the squad's injury challenges. Despite missing key players, Miami has accumulated 18 points from 10 games—a significant improvement over the previous season.

In other MLS matches, Columbus Crew fought back twice to draw 2-2 with Portland Timbers, while Cincinnati claimed a 2-1 victory over Atlanta United, with Luciano Acosta sealing the win after a quick equalizer from Luca Orellano.