Continuing his remarkable performance for Inter Miami CF, Lionel Messi showcased his prowess on Wednesday night, netting two goals in a 3-1 victory over host Orlando City SC in the Leagues Cup, propelling his team into the round of 16 in this inaugural competition.
Messi commenced the game with a bang, expertly controlling Robert Taylor’s lofted pass within the penalty area and unleashing a powerful volley past Orlando’s Pedro Gallese, securing an early advantage and marking his fourth goal in the Leagues Cup.
Orlando managed to level the score 10 minutes later, courtesy of a goal by César Araujo, during a progressively intense first half that witnessed Messi receiving a yellow card.
The tension escalated as Orlando’s Kyle Smith also earned a caution from the referee moments before halftime.
A heated exchange between the World Cup champion and Araujo persisted beyond the whistle, extending into the tunnel.
Messi’s visible agitation stemmed from the robust conclusion to the opening half.
Early in the second half, Inter Miami’s Josef MartÃnez was fouled by Orlando’s Antônio Carlos within the penalty area.
Messi opted to let his Miami teammate take the penalty kick, allowing the former Atlanta United striker to restore the home side’s lead.
A scare unfolded for Inter Miami when Orlando’s Mauricio Pereyra collided with Messi in the second half. Messi momentarily remained on the ground, nursing his jaw before eventually rising to his feet.
In the 63rd minute, Miami coach Gerardo Martino introduced new addition Jordi Alba, marking his MLS debut and reuniting the longtime Barcelona defender with former colleagues Messi and Sergio Busquets in South Beach.
Shortly thereafter, Messi added his fifth goal since joining Miami, executing a close-range volley to secure the victory. Martinez played a crucial role by elegantly chipping the ball back across the six-yard box.
The round of 32 match, originally scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, experienced a 90-minute delay due to severe thunderstorms in the area. Miami’s next challenge awaits against FC Dallas in Frisco, Texas, on August 6, marking Messi’s first away match since joining the team.