Sam Surridge scored twice in the first half on Saturday night, helping Nashville SC secure a 4-1 victory over the New England Revolution in the regular-season opener at home. The striker, fresh off a contract extension through the 2027-28 season, maintained his impressive form by building on his 24-goal performance from 2025.
Nashville SC Dominates Despite New England’s Efforts
Nashville’s other goals came from veteran leader Hany Mukhtar and Warren Madrigal, who also contributed two assists during the match. The home side outshot New England 14-4, demonstrating their attacking dominance throughout the game. For New England, Leo Campana scored their lone goal as the team adjusted to the new leadership of Marko Mitrovic, who recently replaced Caleb Porter as head coach.
New England Attempts a Second-Half Comeback
Trailing 3-0 at halftime, New England improved early in the second half when Carles Gil assisted Campana’s left-footed shot from inside the box, which narrowed the deficit to 3-1 just two minutes after the break. However, two minutes later, Madrigal capitalized on a rebound off a saved Surridge shot to add Nashville’s fourth goal, further securing their lead.
Key Moments Highlight Nashville’s Control
Throughout the second half, Nashville maintained pressure as Mukhtar sought a second goal but was denied by Brooklyn Raines’ defensive block in the 70th minute. In the closing minutes before stoppage time, New England had a rare chance when Ilay Feingold attempted a right-footed strike that flew over the goal, unable to reduce the scoreline.
Surridge’s Game-Opening Impact
Early in the match, after a header from Surridge was saved by New England goalkeeper Matt Turner, the striker quickly made an impact by scoring in the fifth minute. He seized on a ricochet off Madrigal’s foot in the box to open the scoring for Nashville. Eleven minutes later, despite another saved attempt from Surridge, he headed in the rebound to give Nashville a 2-0 advantage, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
Building Momentum for the Season Ahead
Before halftime, Nashville extended their lead when Madrigal assisted Mukhtar, who converted a right-footed shot in the 39th minute to make it 3-0. This early dominance showed the team’s readiness to compete at a high level as the new season begins, especially with emerging leaders like Surridge continuing to shine.
Looking Forward to Continued Success
This win sets a positive tone for Nashville SC’s season, reflecting confidence in their key players and tactical execution. For New England Revolution, the match serves as a starting point under Marko Mitrovic’s leadership as they seek to build chemistry and improve results moving forward.
“Surridge’s contract extension through 2027-28 shows the club’s faith in his talent and importance to our attacking strategy.” ?Warren Madrigal, Nashville SC midfielder
“It was a tough game, but Marko Mitrovic is focused on turning things around for the Revolution this season.” ?Leo Campana, New England Revolution forward
