Messi Held on 899 Goals as Inter Miami Draw Nashville 0–0
Lionel Messi was left waiting for his historic 900th career goal after Inter Miami CF played out a goalless draw against Nashville SC in the first leg of their round-of-16 clash in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Wednesday.
The 38-year-old Argentine forward was closely marked throughout the match in Nashville, limiting his chances in a tightly contested encounter.
Messi had entered the game just one goal away from the 900-goal milestone after scoring his 80th goal for Inter Miami and the 899th of his career during an MLS victory over D.C. United last weekend.
Despite several attempts, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner could not find the breakthrough. His best opportunity came in the 57th minute when Nashville goalkeeper Brian Schwake saved his right-footed shot from the right side of the penalty area.
Rain began falling after a scoreless first half, but both teams’ defenses held firm. Inter Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clairalso produced a key stop in the 65th minute, denying a header from Nashville’s Reed Baker-Whiting following a cross from Cristian Espinoza.
Messi, who turns 39 in June, has scored 672 goals for FC Barcelona, 32 for Paris Saint-Germain, 80 for Inter Miami, and 115 for Argentina national football team.
The second leg of the tie will take place next Wednesday in Miami, where Messi will have another opportunity to reach the historic 900-goal mark.
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