Nashville SC Battles Inter Miami in High-Stakes MLS Cup Playoff Showdown: Complete Match Preview and Bold Predictions

Inter Miami has an opportunity to create franchise history this Saturday as they travel to Nashville SC for the second match of their inaugural first-round best-of-three playoff series in the MLS Cup postseason. 

Following commanding victories on Decision Day and in the opening game versus Nashville, another Miami triumph would propel them beyond the first round of the playoffs for the first time in their organizational history. Simultaneously, it would silence critics questioning the team's playoff capabilities, concerns that emerged after 2024's devastating first-round elimination by eighth-seeded Atlanta United. 

As Lionel Messi aims to guide his squad to success, Nashville SC possesses multiple standout players of their own, with Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge hoping their displays can push for a deciding third game at Miami's Chase Stadium. 

Below is Sports Illustrated's preview for match two.

When Does Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami Begin?

Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami Historical Matchups

Most recent encounter: Inter Miami 3–1 Nashville SC (Oct. 24, 2025) - MLS Cup playoffs

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Nashville SC Squad Update

Nashville SC approaches this match determined to extend their campaign. While it has largely been a successful inaugural full season under B.J. Callaghan, an early playoff departure would represent a major letdown. 

To secure victory, they must see their key performers at peak form. Surridge, who netted 24 goals during the regular campaign, was largely absent in the opening encounter. Meanwhile, creative catalyst Hany Mukhtar managed a strike in the 11th minute of second-half injury time, though it came too late to create meaningful change. 

Competing at home before an energetic GEODIS Park audience will provide assistance, though the squad must also eliminate critical errors.

Beyond their offensive weapons, keeper Joe Willis will likely face multiple tests, requiring exceptional displays from defenders Walker Zimmerman, Andy Najar and others. However, they must proceed without Ahmed Qasem, Jonathan Pérez, Julian Gaines and Wyatt Meir who remain sidelined. 

Nashville earned their U.S. Open Cup title for good reason, but must demonstrate they can continue competing against a highly determined Inter Miami team.

Nashville SC Expected Starting XI vs. Inter Miami

Nashville SC Expected Starting XI vs. Inter Miami (4-3-3): Willis; Nájar, Palacios, Zimmerman, Lovitz; Brugman, Acosta, Muyl; Shaffelburg, Surridge, Mukhtar

Inter Miami Squad Update

Inter Miami has never displayed such determination as they do currently. With Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets preparing for retirement at season's end, two crucial players are already competing with additional intensity, while teammates—including Messi—have raised their performance levels.

Under Javier Mascherano's guidance, Miami has controlled the previous two encounters against Nashville, seeking to repeat this dominance during their second visit to GEODIS Park within three weeks.

Messi found the net twice and assisted Tadeo Allende in the series opener. A comparable showing could secure a semifinal spot, particularly as his recently signed three-year contract extension remains fresh news. 

"The playoffs represent an entirely different tournament, where matches take on new characteristics. Teams exercise greater caution and attention to every aspect, since any situation could result in elimination," Messi explained during an NBC interview this week. "However, we're clearly ready to compete and attempt to claim victory, which we all desire."

"Success won't come easily. We carry the lessons from last season when we topped the regular season standings before suffering first-round elimination."

After battling injuries and suspensions throughout the campaign, the Herons approach this fixture with nearly full fitness, missing only Allen Obando and David Ruiz, who have been absent for considerable time. 

Inter Miami Expected Starting XI vs. Nashville SC

Inter Miami Expected Starting XI vs. Nashville SC (4-4-2): Novo; Fray, Falcón, Allen, Alba; De Paul, Bright, Busquets, Allende; Messi, Suárez

Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami Final Score Forecast

Nashville SC will battle for their postseason survival this weekend and have demonstrated the ability to defeat the league's elite at various points this season. Regrettably for Callaghan's squad, their recent string of results has been underwhelming, and Miami enters as clear favorites to conclude the series.

Final Score Forecast: Nashville SC 1–2 Inter Miami