Lionel Messi made a stunning return from injury, scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to give Inter Miami a 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup semi-finals. With this win, Miami is heading to the final to face the winner of the Los Angeles Galaxy vs. Seattle Sounders match.
Messi, who had missed two games due to a thigh injury, stepped up when it mattered most. He converted a penalty in the 77th minute to equalize, and just 11 minutes later, combined with Jordi Alba to put Miami ahead in the 88th minute. Telasco Segovia sealed the win with a third goal in injury time.
Inter Miami come back to stun 10-man Orlando City
Scorers: Messi 77′ (P), 89′, Segovia 90+3′ ; Pašalić 45+1′
Orlando City came out strong, putting Miami under pressure early on. Marco Pašalić gave Orlando the lead just before halftime, scoring a goal that survived a VAR review for a possible handball. Despite Orlando’s strong start, Miami didn’t give up. In the second half, Miami turned the game around when Orlando’s David Brekalo was sent off after fouling Tadeo Allende in the box. This led to Messi’s calm penalty to tie the game at 1-1.
After Messi’s penalty, it was all Miami. Messi and Alba combined perfectly in the 88th minute for Messi’s second goal, giving Miami the lead. Just when it seemed like Orlando might take the game to penalties, Segovia made it 3-1 in stoppage time, securing the win for Miami.
This win was a huge boost for Miami, especially with Messi back from injury. His two goals in the final 15 minutes showed just how important he is to the team. With the win, Inter Miami is now in their second consecutive Leagues Cup final, and they are looking to win the trophy again after their victory in 2023.
Orlando City will now play in the third-place match. The top three finishers in the tournament will earn spots in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup, adding more importance to the final games.
As for Messi, his return to form has been a game-changer. With Messi in top shape, Inter Miami looks ready to lift the Leagues Cup once again. The final is set, and Miami fans are hoping for another trophy with Messi leading the way.