Messi Stars as Inter Miami Reaches Leagues Cup Final

Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami beats Orlando City 3-1, booking a spot in the 2025 Leagues Cup final.

Inter Miami overcame a tense semifinal scare to secure a spot in the 2025 Leagues Cup final, powered by Lionel Messi brilliance. After missing the previous two matches due to injury, Messi returned in style, scoring twice to lead his team past Orlando City with a 3-1 victory.

Miami Dominates Despite Early Setback

From the opening whistle, Inter Miami controlled possession and dictated the pace. However, it was Orlando City who drew first blood. In the 46th minute, Mario Pašalić unleashed a powerful strike inside the box, sending the ball into the net and giving Orlando a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Messi Turns the Game Around

The second half saw Miami intensify their attacks, but goals were elusive until a critical moment in the 75th minute. Jordi Alba’s cross aimed at Luis Suárez led to a foul by Orlando’s Bracalou, who received a second yellow card and was sent off. Inter Miami earned a penalty, and Messi calmly converted it, leveling the score at 1-1.

Eight minutes later, Messi delivered the match-winning moment. Combining with Alba in a quick one-two, he maneuvered into the box and fired a precise left-foot shot past the goalkeeper into the far corner, putting Miami ahead 2-1.

Sealing Victory with Segovia

During added time, Telasco Segovia sealed the win. Receiving a perfect pass from Suárez, Segovia chipped the ball into the net, confirming a 3-1 victory and sending Inter Miami into the Leagues Cup final.

Looking Ahead

Inter Miami will now await the winner of the second semifinal between LAFC and Seattle Sounders. With Messi leading the charge, fans are hopeful of repeating the team’s 2023 success, when Miami lifted the Leagues Cup in Messi’s debut season.