Lionel Messi reminded fans of his brilliance as Inter Miami defeated Orlando City 3-1 to reach the Leagues Cup final. After two matches on the sidelines due to injury, the Argentine returned with a decisive performance, scoring twice in the closing stages.
Orlando had been the better side for much of the match and went ahead when Marco Pasalic converted just before the break. Miami’s defence failed to clear a pass from Luis Muriel, and the ball fell kindly for Pasalic to strike home. Video officials ruled out protests from Miami players claiming handball.
The second half was tense, with both teams creating chances. Luis Suarez tested Pedro Gallese, while Messi found himself crowded out by defenders. Inter’s coach Javier Mascherano, banned from the touchline after a previous red card, watched nervously from the stands.
Orlando’s evening unravelled when defender David Brekalo fouled substitute Tadeo Allende inside the penalty area. The challenge, which included a shirt pull, earned Brekalo a second booking and left his side a man down. Messi took full advantage, sending Gallese the wrong way to level the score in the 77th minute.
Miami continued to push forward and finally broke Orlando’s resistance with a second Messi strike in the 88th minute, set up by long-time teammate Jordi Alba. Telasco Segovia added the final touch in stoppage time, ensuring Miami’s progression.
The victory sends Miami into Sunday’s final, where they await either Los Angeles Galaxy or Seattle Sounders. Orlando must now prepare for the third-place match, with a Champions Cup spot still on the line.