LEAGUES CUP 2023
Hany Mukhtar, the threat for Messi and Inter Miami in the 2023 Leagues Cup final
Nashville’s German striker could prove to be a headache for the Inter Miami defense and make headlines of his own.
Despite all the spotlight on Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final due to the Lionel Messi factor, Nashville SC must be regarded as a formidable rival for the Herons in this Saturday’s showdown.
Throughout this tournament, Nashville has managed to progress through each challenge it has faced, reaching the showpiece final against the pre-tournament odds. A testament to this resilience lies in their matches against teams such as Cincinnati, Club América, and the recent semifinal clash against Monterrey’s Rayados.
You can watch the Leagues Cup final live online on Apple TV.
Mukhtar to steal Messi limelight?
A pivotal factor that Inter Miami must be cautious of is the 28-year-old German forward, Hany Mukhtar, who undeniably stands as the leader of this team, sharing the same aspiration as the South Florida squad - clinching the championship.
Although Mukhtar hasn’t showcased his scoring prowess in the Leagues Cup as he has in the MLS, the Nashville forward has been a linchpin in their offensive strategies, amassing five assists so far in the tournament, securing the second spot in this category, trailing only Reynoso of Minnesota United.
Nevertheless, everyone is acutely aware that in a final, anything can transpire, and that ‘anything’ encompasses the possibility of Mukhtar awakening as a goalscorer, metamorphosing into a true nightmare for Inter Miami’s defensive line.
Mukhtar's outstanding numbers in the United States with Nashville
Since his arrival in American soccer, Mukhtar has managed to net over 60 goals and provide more than 40 assists for Nashville.
However, his most significant accomplishment came in clinching the title of top scorer in the MLS. In 2022, he claimed the Golden Boot by tallying 23 goals, a feat that later propelled him to secure the accolade of MVP for the preceding season.
This is precisely why Inter Miami must remain vigilant about Mukhtar’s performance this Saturday in the Leagues Cup final, as he looms as a potential disruptor to Miami’s dream celebration with Messi.