Inter Miami host Nashville tonight in the second leg of the 2026 Champions Cup Round of 16, with the aggregate score tied 0‑0 after the first leg. A win or draw would give them a path to the quarterfinals, while Nashville must win to advance.
The match carries significant stakes for both teams. Javier Mascherano‘s team will rely on Lionel Messi and their attacking lineup to break the deadlock at home, while B.J. Callaghan‘s side looks to secure a historic away victory.
This fixture also highlights the growing competitiveness of MLS and Liga MX clubs in international play. The outcome tonight will influence not only the Champions Cup bracket but also momentum for the remainder of the season.
What happens if Inter Miami beat Nashville today?
If Inter Miami CF beat Nashville SC in tonight’s second leg, they will advance to the quarterfinals of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup and will face the winner of the Club America vs Philadelphia Union tie next.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami during the Champions Cup 2026 match (Source: Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images)
In the 2026 Champions Cup, the eight winners of the Round of 16 progress to the quarterfinals, and Miami’s path in the bracket puts them on course to meet the team that emerges from the Mexico vs. MLS showdown.
A victory tonight in Fort Lauderdale would give them a crucial aggregate advantage and book their place in April’s quarterfinal dates, where teams will battle over two legs for a spot in the semifinals and then to reach the final in May.
What happens if Inter Miami and Nashville tie?
If Inter Miami and Nashville finish in a draw, the outcome would depend on the scoreline. A 0–0 draw would send the match to extra time, as the aggregate score would remain level and neither team would have scored an away goal.
However, a 1–1 draw would see Nashville advance, thanks to the away goals rule, as they would have scored on the road while Inter Miami failed to do so in the first leg. If both the aggregate score and away goals are equal after 90 minutes, the tie would then be decided in extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout.
What happens if Inter Miami lose to Nashville today?
If Nashville defeat Inter Miami CF tonight, they will advance to the next round regardless of the scoreline. A win is enough to secure qualification, making the scenario straightforward for the home side.
For Inter Miami, the situation is more delicate. A loss would eliminate them, while a draw or win would be enough to move on. If the aggregate score ends level after both legs, the tie would then be decided by away goals.
Should that also remain even, the match would go to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout. A victory for Nashville would represent a major milestone for the club, sending them deeper into the Champions Cup.
