Lionel Messi shone with two goals in his return, leading Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Orlando City on Wednesday night. This triumph secures them a place in the Leagues Cup final. Messi, recovered from a hamstring injury, proved his worth once more. The match began with Orlando City taking the lead thanks to a goal by Marco Pašalić, although the play was reviewed by VAR for a possible handball. Messi equalized the score in the 77th minute from the penalty spot, after a foul on Tadeo Allende inside the area. Messi’s magic continued in the 88th minute, when he combined with Jordi Alba to put Miami ahead.
The third goal for Inter Miami came thanks to the connection between Telasco Segovia and Luis Suárez, sealing the victory.We are speechless when we talk about Leo. He trained only two or three days and then played 90 minutes and the way he played, created situations, scoring goals. There is nothing more to say. For us, and for the fans, it is a privilege to have him on our team.
Javier Morales, assistant coach of Inter Miami
The match was marked by intensity, with a total of nine yellow cards and one red card for Orlando City defender David Brekalo.We are always excited to win and now we have the opportunity to take a trophy home.
Javier Morales
Inter Miami will face Seattle in the final on Sunday, after the Sounders defeated LA Galaxy 2-0 in the second semi-final. The Miami team is looking to repeat the success of 2022, when they won the tournament.Brekalo’s yellow card was incredible. He doesn’t even touch the player.
Óscar Pareja, Orlando City coach
