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12m ago

Messi Scores Twice as Inter Miami Rallies Past Orlando to Reach Leagues Cup Final

The victory clinches a 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup spot, with a Sunday final pending the LA Galaxy–Seattle result.

Lionel Messi starred for Inter Miami vs Orlando City FC. | Image: AP
Inter Miami players celebrate a goal against Tigres in the Leagues Cup quarterfinal.
Lionel Messi could return to action in the Leagues Cup semifinal.
Inter Miami CF v Orlando City - Leagues Cup Semifinal

Overview

  • Returning from a hamstring issue, Lionel Messi leveled from the spot in the 77th minute and netted the 88th-minute winner before Telasco Segovia added a stoppage-time third in a 3-1 win.
  • Orlando City led at halftime through a Marco Pašalić strike that stood after a VAR check for a possible handball.
  • The match turned when David Brekalo received a second yellow for tugging Tadeo Allende, with the ensuing penalty converted by Messi.
  • Assistant coach Javier Morales directed Inter Miami as head coach Javier Mascherano served a suspension from a quarterfinal red card.
  • Inter Miami advances to Sunday's final against the LA Galaxy–Seattle winner, while Orlando moves to the third-place game; both finalists and the third-place winner qualify for the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup.