Lionel Messi and Inter Miami secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over Orlando City on Sunday night in a hotly contested Florida derby, marking their first win of the 2026 Major League Soccer season. The comeback win on the road was a significant result for the defending MLS Cup champions, who had trailed 2-0 at halftime.
Orlando City took an early lead at Inter&Co Stadium, with goals from Marco Pasalic and Martin Ojeda putting the home side ahead in the first half. However, Inter Miami responded emphatically after the break, launching a stunning comeback fueled by Messi’s brilliance and a strong team performance.
Matteo Silvetti sparked the turnaround with a goal in the 49th minute, quickly followed by Messi leveling the score at 2-2 with a attractive strike from outside the box. The Argentine superstar continued to orchestrate the attack, assisting Telasco Segovia to give Inter Miami the lead in the 85th minute. The assist came after a clever interplay involving Germán Berterame, who delivered a cross that Messi deftly flicked on for Segovia to finish.
With Orlando City reeling, Lionel Messi then sealed the victory with a late free kick, completing a brace and securing a 4-2 triumph. The goal came after Orlando City midfielder Colin Guske received a red card, leaving the home side shorthanded.
The win was Inter Miami’s first ever against Orlando City in their stadium across nine tries. Manager Javier Mascherano made a key tactical adjustment at halftime, bringing on Mateo Silvetti for Noah Allen, which proved pivotal in shifting the momentum. This victory provides a crucial boost for Inter Miami as they look to build momentum in the early stages of the 2026 MLS season.
