By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
Lionel Messi starred as defending MLS champions Inter Miami CF overturned a two-goal deficit to beat Orlando City SC 4-2 in the Florida Derby on Sunday night, highlighted by two stunning strikes from outside the box, including a sensational free kick that sealed the victory in the final moments.
Orlando City looked in control in the first half at Inter&Co Stadium, racing into a 2-0 lead through first-half goals from Marco Pašalić and Martín Ojeda. The hosts dominated much of the early action, leaving Miami searching for answers at halftime.
The momentum shifted dramatically after the break. Mateo Silvetti opened Miami’s comeback with a long-range strike early in the second half, igniting a rally that Messi would take over. In the 57th minute, Messi curled a powerful effort from the edge of the area past Orlando’s goalkeeper to draw the visitors level at 2-2, his first goals of the MLS season.
Telasco Segovia then fired Miami into the lead late in the 85th minute with a well-finished strike, setting the stage for Messi’s late magic. In stoppage time, the Argentine maestro stepped up to take a free kick from just outside the box and delivered a brilliant low drive beneath the wall, clinching the 4-2 win for Miami.
Messi’s brace, one from open play and one from his trademark free kick, was central to Miami’s comeback, marking a memorable night for the Inter Miami talisman as his side claimed their first ever victory at Orlando City’s home ground.
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