Lionel Messi Scores Brace as Inter Miami CF Rally Past Orlando City SC 4–2
Lionel Messi struck twice as Inter Miami came from two goals down to defeat Orlando City 4–2 in Sunday’s Major League Soccer Florida derby.
The reigning MLS champions, who lost their season opener last week, appeared set for another setback after Orlando surged into a 2–0 lead in the first half. Marco Pasalic opened the scoring in the 18th minute, finishing low from Ivan Angulo’s cross after Miami conceded possession in midfield.
Orlando doubled their advantage six minutes later when right-back Griffin Dorsey powered forward before setting up Martin Ojeda, who calmly slotted home to make it 2–0.
Miami responded before the break, with Messi and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul both going close. De Paul’s long-range drive was pushed away by goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau, who moments later produced another fine save to deny Messi from inside the box.
The momentum shifted after halftime. Substitute Mateo Silvetti sparked the comeback with a stunning 25-yard strike in the 49th minute. Messi then drew Miami level eight minutes later, curling a left-footed effort past Crepeau from the edge of the area.
With five minutes remaining, Messi turned provider, slipping a precise pass to Telasco Segovia, who fired into the corner to give Miami a 3–2 lead. The Argentine sealed the comeback in the 90th minute, his low free-kick sneaking under Crepeau to complete a dramatic 4–2 victory.
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