Did Inter Miami really earn their spot in the Leagues Cup final? Messi delivered a masterclass, but a trail of controversial calls has fans talking. This isn’t just about winning; it’s about how they’re winning. What’s your take on Miami’s dramatic, and debated, journey?
Lionel Messi has once again seized the spotlight, orchestrating a dramatic late surge that propelled Inter Miami into the Leagues Cup final, albeit amidst a growing storm of controversy surrounding their unbeaten run.
The legendary Argentine maestro ignited the semifinal against Orlando City with two goals and a crucial assist in the final fifteen minutes, securing a hard-fought 3-1 victory for the Herons in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This pivotal performance underscored Messi’s undeniable impact, rekindling memories of his prolific partnerships with former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba.
Miami’s journey to their second Leagues Cup final in three years has been marked by a string of contentious victories. From narrow escapes to disputed refereeing decisions, their path has consistently raised eyebrows, fueling accusations of favoritism and questioning the legitimacy of their newfound dominance.
The tournament began with a controversial late winner against Atlas, followed by an eyebrow-raising match against Necaxa featuring multiple red cards, a disallowed goal, and a contentious extra-time equalizer. These early incidents set a precedent for a campaign shrouded in dispute.
Further controversy unfolded in subsequent games, including two near-identical, questionable handball penalties converted by Luis Suarez against Tigres, one in the dying minutes. Even coach Javier Mascherano’s defiance of red card protocol, settling behind his bench rather than in the suites, went unpunished by Leagues Cup officials, adding to the perception of lenient treatment.
The semifinal against Orlando City itself was not immune, hinging on an uncalled penalty for Orlando and a debatable one awarded to Miami. This string of five consecutive controversial matches, encompassing everything from extended extra time to dubious calls, has left many fans and pundits feeling a sense of unease.
While some might attribute Miami’s success to exceptional “game management” – a clever exploitation of rules and situations – it starkly contrasts with traditional notions of fair play. The club’s knack for turning contentious moments into favorable outcomes has become a defining characteristic of their Leagues Cup campaign.
This contentious run raises a significant question for MLS executives and investors: Is this the brand of soccer they wish to promote? Inter Miami’s march to the final, while technically deserved, feels more like a cunning maneuver than an unblemished triumph, potentially overshadowing the sporting spectacle with ongoing debates about integrity.
