Sam Surridge’s Stoppage-Time Goal Earns Nashville 2-2 Draw at Inter Miami

Sam Surridge struck deep into stoppage time to deny Inter Miami victory, sealing a 2-2 MLS draw after Lionel Messi had put the hosts ahead with his 99th goal for the club.

Late Surridge goal rescues Nashville

Miami appeared set to complete a comeback after Messi’s second-half finish overturned an early setback, but Nashville punished slack defending at the death.

• Surridge opened the scoring in the fourth minute, running through Miami’s defence to convert Andy Najar’s delivery.
• Messi’s corner then caused chaos in the Nashville area, with the ball deflecting in off Reed Baker-Whiting for the equaliser.
• After the interval, Messi exchanged passes with Rodrigo De Paul before drilling a 20-yard effort into the bottom corner.
• Surridge struck again from close range in added time as Miami failed to pick up their markers.

Messi reaches 99 Miami goals

The Argentine’s goal took him to 99 in all competitions for Miami and lifted his MLS total to 19 this season, leaving him alone at the top of the Golden Boot standings.

Messi also hit the woodwork during another energetic attacking showing from the 39-year-old, but his contribution could not prevent Miami from dropping points after another costly late lapse at the back.

Eastern Conference pressure remains

The draw means Guillermo Hoyos’ team have managed only one victory in their past nine matches in all competitions. Miami stay second in the Eastern Conference with 45 points from 25 games, yet missed the opportunity to cut into Nashville’s lead.

Nashville leave with their nine-point advantage at the top intact.

What happens next

Miami have little time to recover, with Cruz Azul awaiting in Wednesday’s Campeones Cup final. The match gives them an immediate route to a trophy before Kily Gonzalez formally starts as head coach once his work permit is approved.

Nashville resume league duty next Saturday at home to Chicago Fire.