Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from injury, rescuing Inter Miami in the dying minutes of their Leagues Cup semifinal with Orlando City. Down 1–0 for most of the match, Miami turned the tide in the final 15 minutes—Messi first converted a pivotal penalty after a handball in the box, then followed up with a brilliant goal from open play, combining beautifully with Jordi Alba. In added time, he capped the comeback by setting up Telasco Segovia for the third and final goal. The result: a memorable 3–1 victory, sending Inter Miami into the Leagues Cup final.
This dramatic win doubles as payback for Orlando, who had thrashed Miami earlier in the regular season. With the comeback clinching their second final in three years—and a spot in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup—Messi’s influence continues to shape the club’s trajectory.
His return from injury couldn’t have gone better: two goals, one assist, and a reminder that when Miami needs him most, Messi delivers.
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