Lionel Messi returned to action with Inter Miami and quickly made his mark, leading his team to a 3-1 victory over Orlando City and advancing to the Leagues Cup final.
The Flea missed Inter Miami’s last two matches due to a groin injury, and despite participating in less than three training sessions, he was the star of the match against Orlando City at Chase Stadium in Florida.
Messi opened the scoring for Inter Miami from a penalty kick in the 77th minute, then added the second goal for Javier Mascherano’s side in the 88th minute.
MESSI MIGHT’VE JUST WON IT. WOWOWOWOW. pic.twitter.com/r3ZUYugpz5
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 28, 2025
Thus, Inter Miami has reached the Leagues Cup final for the second time in its history, where they will face Seattle Sounders, who defeated Los Angeles FC in the semifinals next Sunday at Lumen Field.
Messi led Inter Miami to the Leagues Cup two years ago, the first official title won by the club, partly owned by English legend David Beckham.
Messi, 37, has increased his total scoring contributions with Inter Miami to 30 goals in 25 matches this season in all competitions, scoring 20 goals and assisting 10 others.