Lionel Messi scored twice in a stunning 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup, extending his spectacular start with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami. On Wednesday, the Argentine star shone in his third game since joining the United States from Paris Saint-Germain. Messi’s spectacular strike broke the deadlock, precisely timed after teammate Robert Taylor sent a superb chip into the box. César Araujo scored from a corner to equalize for Orlando 10 minutes later.
Lionel Messi scores twice for Inter Miami in League Cup win
In the first half, Inter Miami pressed for a second goal and came agonizingly close twice. It was with Messi hitting the post and forcing a fantastic save from Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese with a free kick. The second half began with Josef Martnez completing a penalty kick, restoring Miami’s advantage.
Messi then paired his attacking prowess with Taylor and Martnez to score his second goal. He completed the home team’s overwhelming victory. Orlando thought they had scored a consolation goal in the dying moments thanks to Arajo’s straightforward finish at the back post. Still, the effort was later disallowed due to an offside penalty. Lionel Messi’s goal total against Orlando City currently stands at an incredible five. It was in just three games since moving to the United States.
While Messi’s performance was undeniably spectacular, it was not without flaws. He was shown a yellow card in the first half and nearly escaped a second for a challenge on Arajo. As a result of their dominant performance, Messi and Inter Miami have advanced to the League Cup round of 16, where they will face FC Dallas on Sunday. Messi’s presence in Major League Soccer has pumped up the league, and his efforts have already significantly impacted Inter Miami’s results.
