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Inter Miami were dealt a significant setback in the MLS Cup playoffs on Saturday, falling 2-1 to Nashville SC in Game 2 and thus forcing a decisive third fixture in their opening-round series.
Meanwhile, several other series were extended by dramatic penalty shootouts, even as top seeds, the Philadelphia Union, advanced with clinical efficiency.
Miami Edged by Nashville’s First-Half Dominance
Playing at Geodis Park, Nashville SC established a crucial two-goal advantage in the first half to neutralise Inter Miami’s series lead.
Sam Surridge opened the scoring in the ninth minute, converting a penalty kick, and Josh Bauer doubled the lead just before the halftime whistle following a corner.
Despite dominating possession in the second half, Miami’s offence was unable to find a breakthrough until the final moments.
Lionel Messi scored an 89th-minute consolation goal, firing a precise left-footed shot into the top corner, but the rally proved too late.
Inter Miami, who won Game 1 convincingly, must now host the pivotal Game 3 to avoid an early playoff exit.
Eastern Conference: Union Sweep, Charlotte Forces Final Match
The Eastern Conference top seeds, Philadelphia Union, demonstrated their regular-season pedigree by securing a commanding series sweep over the Chicago Fire.
Tai Baribo was the catalyst, scoring two rapid-fire goals in the eighth and 16th minutes before Bruno Damiani added a third in the 35th minute to seal the 3-0 victory and advance Philadelphia to the Conference semi-finals.
Elsewhere in the East, Charlotte FC extended their series with New York City FC after a tightly contested 0-0 draw at Yankee Stadium was settled by a penalty shootout victory for Charlotte. They will contest a decisive Game 3 to determine who joins Philadelphia in the next round.
Western Conference: Shootout Drama Secures Advances
The Western Conference witnessed two tense series extended via penalty kicks.
Vancouver Whitecaps secured passage to the semi-finals with a dramatic win over FC Dallas.
After falling behind early, the Whitecaps found an equaliser in second-half stoppage time courtesy of Ralph Priso, who slotted home a rebound after a set-piece effort. Vancouver then held their nerve to win the subsequent penalty shootout.
Similarly, the Portland Timbers forced a decisive Game 3 against top-seed San Diego.
After the two teams played to a 2-2 draw in regular time, Portland emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, ensuring the fate of that series will be decided in a winner-take-all contest.
