Did you see what Lionel Messi did last night?! 🔥 Inter Miami’s talisman delivered another unforgettable performance, scoring twice to secure a thrilling 3-1 victory over Orlando City. They’re now heading to the Leagues Cup final! What an incredible journey for the Herons. Can they lift the trophy again?

Lionel Messi once again proved his unparalleled impact on Inter Miami, spearheading their commanding 3-1 victory over Orlando City in a thrilling Leagues Cup semifinal clash. His second-half heroics, including a crucial brace, solidified Miami’s path to the prestigious Leagues Cup final, underscoring the team’s remarkable transformation since his arrival.

The match began with a challenging first half for Inter Miami, where Orlando City demonstrated a more aggressive offensive approach, outshooting their rivals. This pressure culminated in an Orlando goal just before halftime, leaving Miami trailing and needing a significant shift in momentum to reclaim control of the game.

However, the narrative dramatically changed in the second half. Inter Miami emerged with renewed vigor and tactical discipline, effectively neutralizing Orlando City’s attack and limiting them to zero shots. The turning point arrived in the 75th minute when an Orlando player conceded a penalty and received a red card, creating an ideal opportunity for Miami to seize the advantage.

Messi, the undisputed maestro, coolly converted the penalty, slotting the ball precisely into the right side of the net for his first goal of the evening. This equalizer not only demonstrated his composure under pressure but also marked a crucial shift in the game’s dynamics, igniting Miami’s comeback charge in the MLS competition.

Just eleven minutes later, the Argentine superstar delivered a second stunning blow to Orlando City. Receiving the ball on the edge of the penalty area, Messi executed a swift one-two pass with teammate Jordi Alba before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike from close range, effortlessly beating the Orlando goalkeeper and securing Inter Miami’s long-awaited lead.

Messi’s influence extended beyond his goals. He played a pivotal role in Miami’s third goal in stoppage time, delivering a superb long pass from near the halfway line to Jordi Alba, who then assisted another teammate’s decisive strike. This collaborative effort further cemented Miami’s dominance and highlighted the collective strength of the Soccer squad.

Inter Miami now eagerly anticipates the Leagues Cup final against either Monterrey or Nashville SC, with the highly anticipated showdown expected to unfold on the west coast. This appearance marks Miami’s second consecutive trip to the final since Messi joined the club, building on their triumph in the 2023 competition, which yielded their first-ever club title.

Beyond the immediate glory of the Leagues Cup, reaching the final guarantees Inter Miami a coveted spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. This continental qualification underscores the club’s burgeoning ambition and its commitment to competing at the highest levels of North American soccer, aiming to build a legacy of sustained success with Lionel Messi leading the charge.

The club’s impressive trophy haul since Messi’s arrival—including the 2023 Leagues Cup, a trip to the 2023 U.S. Open Cup final, and lifting MLS’ Supporters Shield in 2024—illustrates a remarkable reversal of fortunes for a previously struggling young club. While the MLS Cup remains a priority for the 2025 season, the ongoing success in cup competitions showcases the transformative power of its star player and the team’s collective drive.