Lionel Messi is potentially just 90 minutes away from leading Inter Miami to the first trophy in the club’s history.
Messi scored his ninth goal in six matches since moving to the United States as Miami won 4-1 away at Philadelphia Union in the Leagues Cup semi-finals on Tuesday.
The Argentina captain found the net with a stunning low strike from 30 yards in the 20th minute, after Josef Martinez had given Miami an early lead.
Jordi Alba then made it 3-0 just before half-time by scoring his first goal in the USA following an excellent off-the-ball run from inside his own half.
Alejandro Bedoya pulled a goal back for Philadelphia moments after coming on as a 71st-minute substitute.
But David Ruiz wrapped up a famous win for Miami following a DeAndre Yedlin assist seven minutes from the end.
Lionel Messi pictured (center) scoring for Inter Miami against Philadelphia Union in the semi-finals of the 2023 Leagues Cup
IMAGO/ZUMA Wire/Ricky Fitchett
In addition to his two World Cup finals with Argentina, Messi has competed in four Copa America finals, one Finalissima and one Olympic gold medal match. He also played for Argentina’s U20 side in the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship final.
Messi only featured in one final during his two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, starring in a 4-0 victory over Nantes in the 2022 Trophee des Champions game.
By reaching the final of the Leagues Cup, Miami have gained qualification to the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup.