Nashville SC Upsets Inter Miami CF in Champions Cup, Advances on Away Goals
Nashville SC advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, eliminating Inter Miami CF on away goals following a 1-1 draw in the second leg of their Round of 16 series on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Inter Miami CF Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.1
Messi Scores 900th Career Goal, But It Wasn’t Enough
Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 7th minute, marking his 900th professional career goal.1 Sergio Reguilón assisted on the play, recording his first continental competition assist since 2020 while playing for Sevilla.1 Despite the historic goal, Inter Miami couldn’t secure the win needed to advance.
Espinoza’s Equalizer Sends Nashville Through
Cristian Espinoza leveled the score for Nashville SC in the 74th minute with a half-volley, proving to be the decisive goal of the series.1 He was subsequently named the Superior Player of the Match for his performance.1
Statistical Overview
Nashville SC will now face the winner of the Club América and Philadelphia Union series in the quarterfinals, a new best for the club in the Concacaf Champions Cup.1 Nashville had 40% possession and fewer total shots (5 to 10) than Inter Miami, but generated more expected goals (1.0 xG to 0.8 xG).1
Messi’s Champions Cup Record
Lionel Messi has now scored eight goals in the Concacaf Champions Cup and has 10 direct goal contributions for Inter Miami CF (8 goals, 2 assists).1 Only Ángel Sepúlveda has more goal involvements in the competition with 11.1
Match Details
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with the series too finishing 1-1 on aggregate. Nashville SC advanced due to the away goals rule.2
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