Messi Inspires Miami’s Spectacular Comeback

Inter Miami produced an extraordinary turnaround to defeat Orlando City 4–2 in Major League Soccer on Monday, demonstrating the enduring brilliance of Lionel Messi. The match initially mirrored their opening-day defeat to Los Angeles FC, when Miami lost 2–0. By the 24th minute against Orlando City, Miami was once again trailing 2–0, and the first half concluded with the same scoreline. In fact, over the first 135 minutes of the new season, Miami had conceded five goals without reply.

At halftime, the players’ expressions revealed frustration and helplessness. However, the second half witnessed a remarkable revival. Under Messi’s leadership, Miami regained control, scoring four consecutive goals. Messi himself contributed two goals, while Mateo Silvetti and Talisca Segovia added the other two. From trailing by two goals, Inter Miami emerged from the field with an incredible 4–2 victory.

Despite strengthening their squad in the off-season, Miami initially struggled to assert dominance on the pitch. Orlando City capitalised on this vulnerability early on, with Marco Pasalic scoring in the 18th minute and Martin Ojeda doubling the lead six minutes later. At halftime, coach Javier Mascherano introduced tactical changes, substituting left-back Noah Allen for the attacking midfielder Silvetti, a decision that transformed the game.

In the 49th minute, the 20-year-old Argentine Silvetti scored from outside the box, reducing the deficit. Messi then showcased his trademark skill in the 57th minute, navigating a six-player wall to score with a precise left-foot strike, equalising the match at 2–2. Miami grew increasingly dominant thereafter. In the 85th minute, Talisca Segovia capitalised on Messi’s assist to take the lead, and Messi sealed the victory in the 90th minute with a spectacular free-kick, his 70th goal from set-pieces.

Messi’s statistics in the MLS now stand at 52 goals in his first 55 regular-season matches, with 51 goals in his last 49 games. His career tally reaches 898 goals, just two shy of the milestone 900-goal mark.

Following the match, Mascherano reflected, “Orlando was a very tough opponent last season. Their squad is strong, and their coach is excellent. To win here, we had to play a perfect match. I truly enjoy matches like this as a player.”

Inter Miami will next face D.C. United at Audi Field in Washington on Saturday.

Inter Miami vs Orlando City: Key Match Events