Messi Returns with Brace and Leads Inter Miami to Leagues Cup Final
Lionel Messi once again demonstrated his worth by scoring two goals in his return, leading Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup semi-final. Inter Miami will face the winner of the match between LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders in the final, which will be played on Sunday. Messi, who had been out with a hamstring injury, returned to the field for the second time in two weeks. The match began with Orlando City taking the lead thanks to a goal by Marco Pašalić just before halftime, which was reviewed by VAR for a possible handball. Messi’s magic appeared in the 77th minute, equalizing the score from the penalty spot after Tadeo Allende was brought down in the area. In the 88th minute, Messi shone again by combining 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.The match, full of intensity, featured nine yellow cards and one red card, the latter for Orlando City defender David Brekalo.“We are always excited to win and now we have the opportunity to take a trophy home,” commented assistant coach Javier Morales.
Javier Morales
Inter Miami is looking to repeat the success of 2022, the year they won the tournament.“Brekalo’s first yellow card was incredible. He doesn’t even touch the player (Rodrigo De Paul),” lamented Orlando City coach Óscar Pareja.
Óscar Pareja
