Messi Stuns Orlando as Inter Miami Complete Incredible 4-2 Comeback
Match Report: Orlando City SC 2–4 Inter Miami CF
In a dramatic Florida Derby clash at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Inter Miami came from two goals down to defeat Orlando City 4–2 on Sunday night — marking their first-ever win at this venue and providing a major morale boost early in the MLS season.
Orlando City Takes Early Control
Orlando City burst out of the blocks with purpose.
• 18’ — Marco Pašalić opened the scoring with a composed finish after good build-up play.
• 24’ — Martín Ojeda doubled the home side’s lead with a well-placed finish, giving Orlando a 2–0 advantage at half-time.
The Lions looked comfortable in front of their fans, leaving Inter Miami chasing momentum at the break.
Miami’s Second-Half Revival
The momentum swung sharply after the break, as Inter Miami refused to be subdued:
• 49’ — Mateo Silvetti pulled one back early in the second half with his first career goal, after good teamwork and an assist from defenders, igniting Miami’s resurgence.
• 57’ — Lionel Messi struck to level the match with a clinical finish following build-up play involving Telasco Segovia, drawing Miami level at 2–2.
• 85’ — Telasco Segovia then fired Miami ahead at 3–2 with a powerful strike, turning the game on its head
• 90’ — Lionel Messi sealed the comeback with a superb free-kick to make it 4–2 in the dying moments, completing Miami’s four-goal turnaround.
The star forward’s brace marked his first goals of the 2026 MLS season and extended his incredible scoring record.
Meanwhile in Europe, Lamine Yamal recently scored a stunning hat-trick – Lamine Yamal
Key Turning Points
Tactical Adjustments
Miami coach Javier Mascherano’s substitutions and tactical tweaks — especially bringing Silvetti into play — helped transform the game’s rhythm and allowed Miami to exploit Orlando’s defensive gaps.
Resilience and Experience
Inter Miami’s comeback under pressure showed their championship mentality, with experienced veterans like Messi and rising talent Segovia proving decisive in crucial moments.
Match Snapshot
• First Half: Orlando dominant early; Miami trail 2–0
• Second Half: Miami outplayed Orlando, scoring four goals
• Messi: Two goals (including free-kick) and influential in build-up play
• Silvetti: First MLS goal sparks comeback
• Segovia: Goal + key contribution
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Post-Match Reaction
Coach Mascherano praised his side’s character and said the team showed the spirit of champions by turning the game around. Meanwhile, Orlando coach Oscar Pareja lamented defensive lapses in the second half that allowed Miami to capitalize.
What This Means
Inter Miami’s dramatic victory gives them momentum early in the season and a psychological edge over a local rival. For Orlando City, despite a promising first half, defensive mistakes cost them dearly — and consistency will be key going forward.
Miami now look ahead to their next MLS fixture with confidence after a thrilling comeback.
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