Lionel Messi’s incredible run continues as he led Inter Miami CF to a resounding 4-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union in the semifinals of the Leagues Cup. With this win, Miami secured their place in the inaugural Leagues Cup final, having won all of their games since Messi joined the team in July.
The match at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, saw Miami dominate the first half with goals from Messi, Josef Martínez, and Jordi Alba. This commanding lead proved to be insurmountable for the Union, who were left disappointed once again as they bowed out of another major competition.
Miami’s remarkable run in the Leagues Cup has not only earned them a spot in the final but also secured them a place in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup, marking a historic achievement for the team.
Manager Gerardo Martino expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and highlighted their goal of becoming a highly competitive club. “One of the goals was qualifying for the Concacaf Champions Cup, now we have to prepare to try and win the championship if possible. We are motivated and confident, but we are also focused on doing everything to get better. We want to make this club very competitive,” Martino said.
For the Union, it was yet another disappointing loss in a crucial match. Manager Jim Curtin acknowledged the team’s mistakes in the match and praised Miami’s strong performance. “Takes a complete team effort to have a chance against a team like Miami. First 20-30 minutes, made too many mistakes, they punished us. It wasn’t us in that first half, but they’re very good. Hard to lose and concede four goals, that part hurts. Doesn’t feel normal to walk off that pitch after conceding four,” Curtin stated.
Throughout the Leagues Cup, Inter Miami CF has showcased their attacking prowess by consistently scoring early in matches. In their semifinal against the Union, Messi and Martínez once again found the back of the net in the opening minutes, making it the fifth time Miami has scored within the first 15 minutes of a Leagues Cup game. Messi’s goal, struck from 31.8 meters out, was his ninth in the tournament so far.
Meanwhile, Union goalkeeper Andre Blake was left helpless as Alba increased Miami’s lead to 3-0 just before halftime. Despite Alejandro Bedoya’s goal for the Union in the second half, substitute David Ruiz sealed the victory for Miami with their fourth goal of the night, dashing any hopes of a comeback.
Since Messi’s arrival in Miami, the team’s offensive output has drastically improved. In just six games, Miami has scored a total of 21 goals, compared to their tally of 22 goals in 22 MLS matches prior to Messi’s arrival.
The match was not just a showcase of Messi’s incredible skills but also a testament to his global popularity. Union manager Jim Curtin acknowledged the impact Messi had on the game and the electricity he brings wherever he plays. “Going to be like that anywhere [Messi] goes. He is global, the best to ever play our sport. And he’s humble. To produce like he does over and over when he doesn’t have to … he’s a winner,” Curtin said.
Inter Miami CF will now face Nashville SC in the Leagues Cup final, which is set to take place on Saturday night in Nashville. Miami enters the battle for the championship with great confidence and motivation, while Nashville will be eager to seize the opportunity to claim the title. It promises to be an exciting clash between two determined teams.
The journey towards the Leagues Cup final has been nothing short of extraordinary for Miami, and with Lionel Messi leading the charge, they are looking to etch their names in history as the inaugural champions of the tournament.