Florida’s derby didn’t disappoint. Inter Miami pulled off a stirring 3–1 comeback win over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup semifinals, powered by a brace from Lionel Messi and a late dagger from Telasco Segovia. The Herons are through to the final, and this win will be remembered.
Flames from the First Whistle
Orlando City stunned early—Marco Pašalić slotted home in first-half stoppage time to spark waves of euphoria. The hosts had the home field buzzing. But then the balance tipped. Messi drew level from the spot (77’), followed by a clutch finish after beautiful buildup with Jordi Alba (88’). Segovia added the salt in injury time to seal it.
The Stakes Just Rose
Miami didn’t just reach the final—they reignited the rivalry. This win snaps Orlando’s unbeaten run against them in 2025 and flips the narrative. Now, Miami gets a shot at Leagues Cup glory and a ticket not just to the final, but to the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Clutch Crunch Take
Remember every ripple this game made. Montreal’s comeback was a show of swagger under pressure. It wasn’t just a win—it was redemption, narrative, and chaos—all rolled into one. Messi reminded the world why matches aren’t over until they’re over. The final awaits, and Miami walks in with fire.
(Image credits: Bryan Berlin, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Image cropped)