Inter Miami Advances to Leagues Cup Final with Messi’s Brilliance

FORT LAUDERDALE: A remarkable display by Lionel Messi, who scored twice and provided an assist in the closing quarter-hour, spearheaded Inter Miami’s 3-1 fightback against Orlando City. The victory secured their passage to the Leagues Cup final, to be held at Chase Stadium on Wednesday.

Miami is set to participate in the final for the second occasion in the last three years, with Elasco Segovia’s late goal cementing the semi-final triumph.

Orlando City initially gained the advantage in the 46th minute, courtesy of a goal from their right winger, Marco Pasalic, who delivered an impressive performance.

The match’s momentum shifted when Orlando had a player sent off, paving the way for Miami’s recovery. In the 74th minute, Miami’s Tadeo Allende won a penalty after evading David Brekalo and directing a header toward the goal.

The referee, Walter Lopez, determined that Brekalo had impeded Allende, despite Pedro Gallese’s save of the header. Brekalo received his second caution and was subsequently ejected.

Messi’s penalty attempt in the 77th minute was thwarted by Gallese’s save.

However, Miami maintained their pressure. In the 88th minute, Messi linked up with Jordi Alba on the right side and found the net from close range, penetrating Orlando’s weakened defense.

Messi added his second goal during added time, combining once more with Segovia to finalize Miami’s thrilling 3-1 victory.