Messi Magic Fires Inter Miami to Leagues Cup Final Victory

Inter Miami player ratings took center stage as Lionel Messi propelled his side to a thrilling 3-1 comeback victory over Orlando City SC, booking the Herons’ place in the Leagues Cup final. The clash saw Messi rise to the occasion in the second half, scoring twice—including a dramatic late winner—that not only overturned Orlando’s early lead but showcased why the Argentine legend remains one of football’s most decisive performers.

Inter Miami Player Ratings Shine in Riveting Win

Inter Miami player ratings were put to the test in a high-stakes encounter filled with momentum shifts and controversial calls. Orlando City, led by Oscar Pareja, started brightly and broke the deadlock before halftime. Ivan Angulo nearly doubled their lead in the 22nd minute, but his crucial chance went begging as his shot missed the target.

Just before the halftime whistle, Miami clawed back. Marco Pašalić unleashed a shot that ricocheted off Maxi Falcon and back to him, allowing Pašalić to finish clinically in the 46th minute. After a lengthy VAR review, the goal stood—giving Miami vital momentum.

Messi’s Second-Half Brilliance Rescues Inter Miami

Orlando, still dangerous, pushed forward after the break, but controversial refereeing decisions left them frustrated. Angulo’s second big chance saw him brought down by Sergio Busquets in the box, but no penalty was given despite video review.

With the score level, Inter Miami found their composure. Tadeo Allende was brought down in the box, and after another VAR consultation, a penalty was awarded. Messi stepped up with trademark composure, burying his shot to equalize and breathe new life into Miami’s campaign.

Jordi Alba and Messi Combine for the Winner

As the clock ticked down, Jordi Alba—mostly quiet until that point—found Messi with a pinpoint pass in the box. Messi’s finishing touch was clinical, beating Pedro Gallese to seal Miami’s lead and send the crowd into celebration. The Argentine’s brace underlined his impact since arriving in MLS and his unique ability to deliver when it matters most.

Segovia Seals Inter Miami’s Place in the Final

Telasco Segovia added a late insurance goal with a spectacular finish, giving Miami a 3-1 cushion and confirming their advance to the Leagues Cup final. Orlando City, though disappointed, will still have a chance to secure a CONCACAF Champions Cup berth in the third-place match.

Orlando City’s Missed Opportunities

Orlando’s brave performance was marred by missed chances and contentious calls. Angulo’s missed one-on-one and the denied penalty shout will linger in the minds of fans and players. Oscar Pareja’s men will need to regroup quickly with a vital third-place match ahead.

Inter Miami Player Ratings: Key Performers

– Lionel Messi: 9/10 – Instrumental in the comeback; clinical finishing and leadership.
– Marco Pašalić: 8/10 – Vital equalizer, effective in midfield transitions.
– Jordi Alba: 7/10 – Quiet for much of the match, but delivered when it mattered most.
– Tadeo Allende: 7/10 – Won the penalty and worked hard off the ball.
– Sergio Busquets: 6/10 – Composed, though fortunate with the non-call in the box.

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Opinion: Messi Continues to Rewrite MLS History

Lionel Messi’s influence on Inter Miami is nothing short of transformative. His ability to step up in decisive moments is setting new standards in MLS and giving the club belief in every fixture. The Herons now have a real shot at silverware, and with Messi leading the line, their Leagues Cup journey could end in glory. Orlando will rue their missed opportunities and controversial calls, but Miami’s victory was ultimately a testament to resilience and world-class talent.